Do you get the jitters just thinking about what’s gotta get done between now and December 25th? I’m here to help you decide what to SKIP and what NOT to SKIP this holiday season.
These are the items that made my short list.
SKIP:
ONE: Parties
I hereby give you permission to skip some of the parties, pageants, recitals, caroling events, concerts, and other holiday-specific activities. It’s time to pare down the list of your options and become selective. What events drain you, go too late into the night, or are too loud or crowded? If they don’t make the cut, politely decline the invite. Becoming judicious with your time is a much-needed skill now and anytime.
Of course, you don’t have to skip them all. In fact, it’s important to get out and share the joys of the holidays with others. Socialization –particularly during the holidays – is very important.
If you’re anything like me, you too might think this strange. Sometimes when I want to go to something the least – that’s when I find that I have the most fun. Be open to a little outside-the-box fun now and then.
TWO: Sweets
You knew I’d mention this one. But don’t worry. I’m not asking that you give up your holiday fun. Just as with your time, become selective with your food intake. It’s the “too many” that can really sink your best-laid plans. It’s okay to indulge here or there, but when it becomes everywhere, then you’ve got a problem. Overindulging in sweets and unhealthy party foods can leave you feeling bloated, headachy, foggy-brained, and in greater overall pain than usual.
Why bother?
Instead, choose to moderate the indulgences and celebrate the season in ways that leave you feeling healthy and balanced.
THREE: Late nights
Sometimes we burn the candle at both ends trying to get everything done before Christmas. Have you ever run around like a nut for the entire months of November and December only to end up being sick for the entire holiday week?
I sure have.
Staying up late to get things done is a sure fire way to sabotage your health plans. Whether or not things are done, get to bed. Get the sleep you need. You’ll appreciate how good you feel as you wake each day.
Short-changing your sleep isn’t worth it.
In a nutshell, it’s important to prioritize your time and your intentions. In the chronic illness community, this topic is often referred to as pacing. It’s important to challenge yourself to participate in activities while also pacing yourself to avoid a flare up of symptoms.
Do NOT SKIP:
ONE: Getting green
Yes, it’s great to get your tree and keep things festive in your home. But don’t forget the green on your plate. By getting in adequate servings of veggies, greens, and microgreens, you can be sure to keep your immune system running at peak levels as well as your overall energy.
TWO: Getting moving
It’s easy to let your fitness routines – and other routines – slide during this time of year. It’s okay to settle for less that optimal, but don’t make the mistake of letting them go altogether.
You may need to get creative to make your workouts happen.
Take the time needed to move your body in healthy ways. Enlist a friend to keep you on track. And, even if you don’t work out as often or for as long as usual, take what you can and make the best of it. Whether it’s walking at the mall, or getting outdoors and participating in your favorite activity – you’ve got to move it, move it!
THREE: Self-care
What’s your favorite self-care routine? Do you practice yoga, tai chi, meditation, prayer/power walks, or soak in an Epsom salt bath?
Don’t skip – or skimp – on what revitalizes you.
Now more than ever, it’s important to recharge your personal batteries. Even if it’s a few moments to sip some tea and watch a favorite holiday movie, carve out the time and make it a priority.
So, what do you plan to
SKIP and NOT SKIP this Christmas?
Share your favorite ideas below!
If you feel your holiday spirit lagging, take a drive around this evening and look at Christmas lights in your neighborhood. Breathe deeply and say a prayer of gratitude for what you DO have in your life. Remember that God is good. All the time.
I pray the best for you this holiday season, and always.
There’s still time to give yourself the gift of Stress-relief and Positivity! And, don’t forget to enter my Stress Less contest! The entry deadline is just a few weeks away.
Check out all the exciting details here.
Congratulations to the winners of my FREE Smoothie Jumpstart course. These winners participated in the Chronic Illness Bloggers Giveaway and won packages that included my course. Well done!
Tammy S. ** Lori F. ** Cynthia B.
