Lifestyle Medicine: The Recipe for a Happier, Healthier Holiday Season
It's the most wonderful time of the year. Holiday parties and celebrations are in full swing, gifts are wrapped, and tasty treats are everywhere. Family and friends are opening their homes for merrymaking or packing to go over the river and through the woods, to the beach, or just down the street.
What do you want the most from this season of celebration? No matter what is on your wish list, we all likely have some things in common:
- Sharing traditions
- Moments of quiet (or not-so-quiet) joy
- Enjoying the gift of time spent with family and friends
Sometimes, the pressures and responsibilities of the holidays can get in the way. Financial stress, competing demands for our time, and making healthy choices can feel more difficult during the holidays. The 6 Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine (American College of Lifestyle Medicine) can help as we navigate these.
- Nutrition: Start your meal with fresh fruits and vegetables; add some beans, whole grains, and modest amounts of meat. Savor small amounts of seasonal treats - enjoy each bite slowly. Stop eating when you feel satisfied instead of full to avoid the dreaded "food coma."
- Physical Activity: Move joyfully - dance, play football in the front yard, take a brisk walk, or play reindeer games with the kids.
- Stress Management: Be still and know - keep your heart at peace by connecting with your faith or spirituality. See yourself and others with eyes of love and curiosity rather than judgment and criticism. When the rush of work, family, and holiday stress piles up, take a moment to list three things you are grateful for. Pause and take deep breaths to re-set before responding to any stressful situation.
- Restorative Sleep: Enjoy a silent night - turn off cell phones and televisions, plan a healthy bedtime routine, and avoid alcohol and caffeine before bedtime.
- Connection: Worship, celebrate, play games, tell stories, and fellowship with family and friends. Practice random acts of kindness today - say hello to the cashier at HEB and thank them for working this time of year, smile at people as you walk down the hall, or invite a neighbor to a holiday meal.
- Avoid Risky Substances: Stay merry & bright - Avoid harmful substances like tobacco products or excessive alcohol that can get in the way of safe celebrations.
Enjoy the very best of this season with meaningful moments, nourishing food, and physical activity. The glorious reminders of this season are also the foundations of a happy, healthy life, and taking care of yourself and others is the perfect gift.