Holiday Warm-Up

They’re back!  The holidays are quickly approaching and it’s that time of year that we often lose control.  We can feel out of our rhythm in regards to all aspects of our total health.  Body, mind, and spirit tend to be taken for granted – we exercise less, eat more, are stressed and don’t get enough rest.  Why not approach this holiday season differently?  Try one or any of the following tweaks during the next few weeks:

Before you leave your house in the morning, do something healthy.  Walk the dog, stretch or foam roll, add fruit to your cereal or meditate.  Whatever you choose to do, it will set the course for positive choices all day.

Drink Water!  After your morning cup or two of coffee or tea, only drink water for the rest of the day.  Staying properly hydrated helps with all aspects of your health and wellness.

Play!  Schedule some fun time to move.  Go for a walk or run with a friend, dance, or play tag.  Whatever it is, work up a sweat having fun.

One Swap.  Make one simple food swap today – grilled chicken instead of fried, whole-wheat bread for white, popcorn instead of potato chips.

Take the Stairs.  Avoid taking the elevator or the escalator and take the stairs

Get Up.  Once or twice an hour get up from your chair or couch and stand, walk or stretch. 

Bedtime.  Set a realistic time to go to bed and stick with it.  About 30 minutes before your bedtime, turn off your technology, change into your pajamas, wash your face, brush your teeth and think about one thing that you were happy about during that day.  You’ll be ready for bed both physically and mentally, which will increase your odds of getting a better nights rest (ideally 7-8 hours)

Maybe one or more of the suggestions above will become a part of your regular routine.  It’s a gift you can give yourself as we head into the holiday homestretch of this year.