5 Tips for Staying Sane in the Pandemic Holiday Season:
- Learn to say no
- This is perhaps the most important rule of all. The holidays are usually about others and reconnecting with everyone, but this year is a little different. It’s a time to consider the health and wellbeing of others as well as your own.
- Don’t feel bad for declining an invitation because you’re trying to practice safety first. This is your season just as much as theirs. Try suggesting an online get together and get it on everyone’s schedule early! Send out a video conference “save the date” now so there’s no question about your decision to stay at home.
- Stay hydrated
- Even if you’re not out and about attending festivities, the holidays can include a lot of delicious delicacies that can slowly expand your waistline. Many foods we consume during this time can contain high levels of sodium and unknowingly cause dehydration, which will ultimately put the body under physical stress as we enjoy that extra mug of eggnog or hot chocolate while connecting with friends and family on a video conference.
- Remember the importance of remaining hydrated and regularly consuming water. If you don’t have a water bottle that helps you monitor your intake, why not ask Santa for one?
- Forget about perfection!
- For many people this can be especially tough, but life can throw a wrench into the best made plans, especially in the midst of a pandemic. Always remember your reason for the season: and try to make the best of this special time even if you aren’t physically together with those you love. When the unexpected hits so does a tsunami of stress. Listen to Disney when they sing, “Let it go!”
- Walk it off
- Sometimes stress can overwhelm us to the point where it can only be released through physical exercise. The phrase “let off some steam” comes to mind, here. Take a twenty to thirty minute brisk walk or opt for a light jog.
- Many exercise routines are shrugged off during this time and it is important to remember the benefits of physical activity. Reset your body and get it moving. You’ll be glad you did!
- Soak up the sun
- Ever wonder why people can become particularly gloomy during the winter months? Researchers have attributed this seasonal depression, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), to a lack of sunlight which gives us that happy boost of Vitamin D.
- As mentioned above, take a walk or a hike when the sun is out and brightly shining! Can’t stand the cold? Flood your home with natural light while doing an online workout routine. There’s something for everyone – no matter what fitness level – on the internet if you just look!
Don’t let the holiday season turn you into a Scrooge. If you need a little extra help alleviating stress this holiday season, don’t hesitate to come see us. We help get you back on track physically so that you feel great, you’re pain free, and you’re ready to actually enjoy the holidays.
