HOLIDAY SEASON SURVIVAL TIPS

It’s that wonderful time of year again, the season of countless parties, family gatherings and seemingly endless amounts of rich food and drink. With so many indulgences to choose from, it can be a challenge to find a healthy balance during the holidays.

To make the most of this year’s holiday season, here are some helpful tips:

Hydrate
When the body is adequately hydrated we feel full of energy and alert!
Start the day with a large glass (350ml-500ml) of room temperature water with or without fresh squeezed lemon juice.
Be sure to drink room temperature water throughout the day. Consume 2-3L of filtered water daily.

The 1-1 Hydration Rule:
Drink a large glass of water for every other drink consumed (coffee, alcohol, wine, beer)
Always start and finish the day with a large glass of room temperature water.

Be Selective with Desserts & Treats
Who can resist homemade treats prepared with love and care?
Absolutely have a slice of grandma’s apple pie. That pie contains more love than it does sugar.
The key to surviving the holidays without gaining the “holiday weight” is to selectively indulge. YES to grandma’s home-baked goodness, NO to the snowman cookies a colleague brought in from the local coffee shop.

Recover from the Sugar & Alcohol Hangover
We can all get a little carried away with rich food and drink, no matter how good our intentions.
Stick to simple beverages and cocktails without the extra sugary toppings such as marshmallows, liquors, artificial flavourings and syrups.

What to do when the sugar and alcohol hangovers hit:

See Also

AN INVITATION TO A CALM PARTY WITHIN – Meditation and breathing techniques to keep you grounded

1. Drink room temperature water, followed by herbal tea, followed by more water. Avoid icy cold beverages first thing in the morning. Hydrate throughout the day.
2. For breakfast prepare or purchase a freshly pressed juice containing a large amount of greens and a small amount of fruit.
3. A banana or oats or a small baked potato are great food choices for first meal. The minerals and carbs will help to detoxify and restore balance to the cells.
4. Keep food for the day, light and nutritious. Simple soups, fresh salads, fruit, brown rice with steamed veggies, are all excellent options.

Plan to Rest
Sleep is often what suffers most when we are busy with social engagements.
Here are some practices that will make a positive difference in the quality of your sleep:

1. Excuse yourself from the party early. An hour after dinner is served, it is acceptable to politely thank the host and leave.
2. Upon arrival at home after the event, drink a large glass of room temperature water.
3. Turn OFF white screens (television, computer, cell phones).

Above all, it is essential to remember that the holidays are a time to share joy, gratitude and love. Free yourself from stress and enjoy this wonderful time of year.

Have a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!