Meditation, Exercise & Eating Healthy Top the List

The holidays have a way of leaving even the most fit and healthy people stressed, depressed and/or overall frazzled. If you fall into that category or find yourself feeling that way, I have a few tips to stay healthy this holiday season.

1. Shop Online

When shopping at the mall, it may not be the most convenient option. We all love the hustle and bustle of in-person holiday shopping; however, when you are in a pinch for time and have so many other items on your checklist, online shipping is such a convenient time-saver when you’re in a crunch (Amazon prime is so worth it).

2. Save Money

A lot of holiday stress comes from feeling like you have to get gifts for everyone.  It may sound cliche, but the biggest gift is your presence, not presents. People remember the gifts that are year round, not just one time. Create something meaningful, from the heart. Groupon also has great options that take very little time to purchase.  I blew up a photo of the family on a big canvas and my mom loved it! I also drew on Starbucks cups one year and personalized them.

3. Keep your Immunity Boosted

The last thing you need is to get sick during the holiday season. Consider a flu shot (consult with your physician), or supporting your immune system by consuming more omegas in your diet and through natural supplements like SeabuckWonders Sea Buckthorn oils and gel tabs. I also recommend drinking hot tea, lemon, honey, ginger, dark greens, and even having garlic once in awhile. These will all help boost your immune system. Good nutrition and a good sweat will keep you strong year round. Maybe even hit the sauna after your celebratory nights to sweat out the toxins.

4. Stay Active

Don’t fall back on your fitness routine and make excuses that you’re too busy during the holidays. And if you may have to miss some time at the gym, make sure you’re staying active while accomplishing some of those holiday tasks. For instance.. making cookies? Do a 10 minute HIIT workout while the cookies are in the oven… make it a half hour while the cookies are cooling. (They’ll be easier to decorate, too.) My recommendation is to get it done early in the morning. Don’t let the weather affect your goals. A 15-minute walk is better than nothing.

5. Random Acts of Kindness

Next time you’re at Starbucks, buy a drink for the person behind you. Don’t forget the meaning of the season: To give is better than to receive. This always comes back in a positive way, plus the spirit of giving keeps you healthy and happy.

6. Volunteer

Nothing is quite as spirit-lifting as volunteering your time for the less fortunate, especially during the holiday season. If you’ve been making excuses on how to get involved, reach out to an organization like the United Way or a niche organization supporting a cause of which you’re passionate and sign yourself up. No more excuses. Just do it! Another idea is to gather some of your old sneakers and/or clothes with some friends and take them to a local community center.

7. Snack Wisely and Don’t Overindulge

Fight the temptation for that sweet Cinnabon and reach for trail mix, low-fat yogurt and string cheese, freeze-dried fruit, hard boiled eggs, or a low-sugar granola bar. If you do eat something not so healthy, just make sure to limit the amount. Share things with people, cut things into four pieces. I always say that the 5 minutes of satisfaction won’t even be remembered a week from now.

8. Don’t Starve Pre-Party

If you think skip meals leading up to a holiday party, thinking you’ll save on calories, research shows you’re prone to consume MORE calories than you normally would if you came to the party feeling satiated. This is especially true if there’s booze involved, as we all know drinking alcohol on an empty stomach is a BAD idea.

9. Make Time for Yourself

As much as we love to give this season, always remember to make time for YOU! Set time each day to do some meditating, breathwork, yoga, hike, stretching, foam rolling, massages, etc.

10. Take time to Reflect

I share with everyone how important it is to reflect on the year before going into a new one. It’s so easy to set goals and vision board without acknowledging how far we’ve come. We must celebrate all the wins and growth opportunities along the way. Journal, blog, make a list, share with a friend or family member and do it together. It is powerful.

Wishing you all healthy and stress-free holidays!

– Blaine Strong

Blaine is a fit lifestyle entrepreneur. Born and raised in Pasadena, CA, Blaine has been into health and fitness for the majority of his life. Blaine has a BA in Kinesiology from Cal State Northridge and has been personal training, teaching group classes, and healthy active lifestyle coaching for the past 5 years.