Close your eyes for just one minute. Smell your holiday roast cooking in the oven. It fills the air with the fragrance of anticipation of family and friends. Conversation and companionship transform the home. It is a beautiful vision. Yet, we all know the reality of the holiday season. There is shopping to be done, social events to attend and family to entertain. The demands are high, there lots to be done as we share in the bounty of blessings that are bestowed upon each and everyone of us. This holiday season I am asking you to stop for a moment and choose yourself first.
I know as I speak with my clients, many are concerned how they will handle every aspect of this holiday season.
Here are some suggestions:
1. Make sure you start your day with an excellent breakfast- An egg omelet stuffed with veggies will help balance your blood sugar and energize your body. And make sure you drink lots of fresh spring water each day to stay hydrated and healthy.
2.Dust off your cooler if you are traveling- Load it up with healthy items if you will be on the go. Pack nuts, yogurt and even a thermos of soup to guarantee that you are well nourished when hitting the road.
3.Offer to bring a special healthy dish-This dish will ensure that you have at least one nutritious offering you can eat while dining out.
4. Get out there and exercise gently to release stress. Grab the pooch and go for a walk. When you exercise you release endorphins that reduce stress and boost your mood. .
5. Drink lots of mineral rich water and herbal teas.
6. And know if you fall off the proverbial wagon and make poor choices during the holiday, just pick yourself up and get right back on track the next day.
7. Allow yourself time each day to be silent and meditate. This will allow you the ability to remain balanced and energized.
8. Make sure you get 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Give yourself permission to take a nap in the afternoon so that your cup is overflowing with energy.
9. Breathe- Pay attention to your breath and follow it.
10. Cherish yourself with a deliciously scented bubble bath at the end of the day to ensure that your vitality, vigor, emotional equilibrium, and mental clarity stay in place.
11.Last but not least, say NO when necessary- Learn to let go of your guilt. Do not take on more than you can handle. Try your best to make sure you’re not left with shouldering too much responsibility. When you say NO, you will have more energy, more time, more confidence more control, more respect and more fun.
A wonderful Holiday season is filled with love, family and blessings. However, a true Holiday season is one where you choose yourself first and honor yourself on the deepest of levels. One where you are fully present, fully conscious and open to all the kindness and blessings dancing your way. Wishing all of you a Very Healthy, Happy and Magical Holiday. Here’s to your health!
Joy Feldman is a writer, author and lecturer. She is the author of Joyful Cooking in the Pursuit of Good Health and Is Your Hair Made of Donuts? Learn more at www.joyfeldman.com or www.isyourhairmadeofdonuts.com Learn more at www.joyfeldman.com
