Be True to You this Holiday Season

Be True to You this Holiday Season

What if the holidays could be more about what you do want and less about what you don’t? The holidays can (and should) be a time of love, life, togetherness, reminiscing, and gratitude. But all too often we get caught up in the planning, shopping, spending, wrapping, cleaning, prepping, cooking, and other associated guilts that we forget who we are and what is important to us. Meaning we never actually enjoy the season or our families.

I am a firm believer that you need to fill your life in all areas on a regular basis to feel whole as a person. So, here are my TOP 12 FAVORITE ideas for staying focused on what is truly important to you this holiday season so that you can make it your best one yet!

1. Creativity. It is so easy to get caught up in our to-do lists this time of year that we forget (or refuse) to take time to enjoy the season. Sing! Make your own greeting cards. Plan your next vacation. Decorate you yard, mantel, table or all of the above! And if you must “do,” then find a way to make it fun.
2.  Finances. The best way to prevent overspending on gifts is to plan ahead and shop online. Make a list of everyone you plan to buy for and then make a list of ideas. Don’t be afraid to shop for deals and remember it really is the thought that counts!
3. Career. Out with the old and in with the new, right? This time of year we can feel a bit stale, overworked, and underappreciated. Before jumping ship or getting depressed, reevaluate and set a new intention. You may or may not have the best job for you. Maybe it is time for a fresh start, or maybe it is time to give a fresh look at your current position!
4.  Education. As humans it is imperative that we are always learning and growing. This time of year though we often don’t have time to take a class or read a book. But we will have occasion to cook and can always use an inexpensive gift idea! Take this opportunity to learn a new recipe for an upcoming event or learn how to can/preserve or make homemade body care products that you can then creatively wrap and give as gifts!
5. Health. Do yourself a favor this holiday season and forget dieting. Be realistic – this is not the time of year to set an ambition weight-loss goal. Instead set an intention to maintain. Make healthful choices 90% of the time and savor your indulgences.
6. Fitness. Whether you are a regular gym rat or a regular couch potato, the holidays are sure to mess with your regular routine. Use the holidays as an opportunity to shake things up a bit. Grab your family or some friends and go sledding, ice skating, skiing, or simply for a stroll after dinner.
7. Home Cooking. Simple home cooking is always preferable to processed or decadent dishes when it comes to health but that doesn’t mean you can’t eat out or visit friends without being a food snob. That said, don’t be afraid to eat before you go, scout the buffet first, eat slowly and savor your meal, choose whole food options, etc. And if you are cooking, remember the less processed the better – no need to make fancy casseroles and such when a simple dish will do.
8. Home Environment. Chances are you have shut your window, turned on the furnace and begun cleaning for company. Please make sure you are still getting fresh air daily, your furnace filters are clean (as are your ducts) and those trusty cleaning supplies are toxin free!
9. Relationships. Finding time to connect with loved ones on a deeper level is super important during the holidays. Even simple signs of affection, like hand holding, are know to reduce stress hormones and blood pressure and create calm.
10. Social Life. A night out with the girls is exactly the prescription you need to reduce stress and anxiety. Couple it with some light fitness, laughing, singing, healthy foods, or creativity and you have an amazing recipe for a stress-free, happy holiday season.
11. Joy. Whether you enjoy high impact fitness, snuggling with your dog, window shopping, reading a good book, a night on the town, or a relaxing facial, be sure to make regular time for you. Do at least 1 small thing just for you every day and at least 1 big thing weekly. Do it guilt-free and with a genuine smile on your face or it doesn’t count!
12. Spirituality. Even if you aren’t religious, this time of year is a great time to focus on your spirituality. If religion is something you’ve been thinking about, try it out. If not, learn to meditate or spend some time in nature…stargaze, cut down your own Christmas tree, or take a walk after dinner.

And, as always, never be afraid to be selfish or set limits, and always plan ahead.

For specific recipe ideas or if you need help implementing any of these suggestions, contact Beth at Second Nature Health Coaching (303-956-8063 or beth@secondnaturehealthcoaching.com).