Keeping Healthy During the Holidays

Social commitments, travel, stress at work and rich party foods can do a number on your efforts to eat right and stay fit. Advanced Chiropractic Group of Santa Barbara would like to remind you, in the middle of the holiday whirlwind of activity, remember to take care of yourself, too. By keeping up regular healthy habits, you can keep yourself feeling better throughout the holidays and have less recuperation to do after they are over.

Diet, Exercise and Stress Management Tips for the Holidays

It is okay to enjoy holiday treats. But, do not let healthy eating habits go completely by the wayside. When you are at home, eat whole grains, leafy greens and other healthy dishes. Going to a party with a buffet? Take a walk through first so that you can mindfully pick out just a few dishes that you really want. Eat a small, healthful snack prior to the party to avoid overindulging.

When you entertain, opt for healthier versions of holiday favorites. For instance, serve whipped sweet potatoes made with low-fat broth as a savory side dish instead of white potatoes or a marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole. Incorporating some healthy holiday foods balances out foods that are higher in fats and sugars.

Parties and out of town guests can wreak havoc on your exercise schedule. Make some time to at least walk every day. Even if you cannot get to the gym for your regular workouts, you will still be getting some physical activity. This keeps you on track with healthy habits and helps reduce stress.

To further combat holiday stress, take a bit of time each day to unplug. Meditate, do yoga, or just sit by a window with a pleasant view and enjoy a cup of hot tea. Taking care of your mind and body helps alleviate the stress of the holidays.

What are some of your favorite ways to decompress from holiday stress?