We all know that we need to be a lot kinder to our bodies and our selves than we sometimes are. You know that you need to be getting more sleep, drinking enough water, and managing your stress. We all have the best intentions, but it’s sometimes easier said than done. But every day (every moment) gives us a new opportunity prioritize yourself and your health. But one of the simplest and most effective ways to feel healthy and well, is to focus on how you nourish your body, especially during this busy holiday season! So here are 5 things to focus on to help you stay healthy, nourished (and reduced overwhelm) during this holiday season. Aaaaand to move into the New Year feeling good and really to conquer the world.
Get Enough Protein
Protein helps keep you full and satisfied with your meals and to boosts energy. Lean meat, like chicken fish and seafood, are a great source of protein, like https://www.citarella.com/shop/crab. If you are not a meat eater, no worries, you can get protein from plant-based sources like nuts, whole grains like quinoa, beans, and tofu for your protein sources. But it’s essential that you fuel your body with protein at every meal and snack.
Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Fruits and vegetables should be the mainstay of your diet. They have all the essential building blocks that our bodies need to function optimally. Frozen fruits and vegetables are an easy and convenient way get 5-9 servings of fruits and veggies. But also try to get fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, because mother nature always grows just what you need to stay healthy and well in every season! And be sure to wash your produce to reduce the yucky stuff that can sometimes linger.
Limit added sugar.
During this time of year, there are treats everywhere! But be really mindful of how often you indulge or you won’t be feeling your best at the end of the season. I loved this article about how sugar affects your body ? https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/health-concerns-of-refined-sugar/. I am not saying, don’t enjoy holiday treats, just be mindful what you put into your body and how you feel!
Include Healthy Fats
And just like with getting enough protein in your diet, make sure you are getting enough healthy fats in your diet. Fat is no longer the villain it once was, getting plenty of good healthy fat is good for your joints, decreased inflammation and helps your hair and skin look fabulous! This list is a good start https://www.self.com/story/9-high-fat-foods-actually-good-for-you.
Find Balance
It’s all about balance. Balance in what we eat, how we work, our stress and our families. And finding balance and flow for each of these would be a post in itself, but one of the most fundamental ways to maintain your wellbeing right now, is to find some balance in how you treat your body. The opportunities for treats and indulging can be overwhelming this time and year, especially if you are trying to make changes in your diet and your body. I would tell you, just avoid your fav treats, but that would be unreasonable and would take some of the fun and joy out of this time of year…I mean, to never have any peanut brittle or Christmas cookies or mac and cheese at Christmas dinner, would be terrible. So it’s all about balance. Be mindful of how much you indulge and balance the treats with lots of healthy nutritious foods and lots of frequent activity and exercise. The healthy food will help you stay well and feeling good and regular exercise, helps you manage anxiety, give you energy and manage the stress of the season.
Happy Holidays Everyone!
Be Merry,
Sally
P.S. I mainly talked about nourishing your body, but we are made up of mind, body, and spirit and all aspects of our whole need to be nourished for us to feel happy and whole. HERE, HERE and HERE are some more ways to add peace and nourish your mind (emotional) and spirit body….but I get it, it’s hard to fit it all in this time of year, but just keep it on your raidar…the New Year is a great time to start Reseting yourself!
P.P.S. I am very protective of my mornings because I think that the way you start your day creates the intention for the day. I start every day with a meditation and self-care. Do want to start a morning ritual? Download my free 21 Day Morning Ritual Guide and Journal, so you can start every day with intention. #intentionalliving
**This is a collaborative post, that contains affiliate links.**