Tips on Staying Healthy Over the Holidays

Written by: Michelle DeMarchi, Physiotherapist & Osteopath

The holidays are here! Although this means lots of good things like family, fun, and food, staying healthy can be a big challenge. As you enter the holiday season this year remeber these simple tips to keep you healthy and hoplefully help keep those unwanted holiday pounds off.

• Don’t sweat the small stuff. Don’t stress out trying to buy the best gift or set the absolute perfect table. Remember what the holiday is supposed to be about and focus on spending time with those you love. You might even try giving to charity this year instead of gifts?! Charitable giving is down due to economic struggles, so now is the best time to give if you can.
• Keep up the hand washing. You’ll come into closer contact with more people during the holidays, exposing you to more nasty bugs that could force you to spend your holiday sick in bed.
• Continue your healthy eating habits. Even though you’re busy, don’t sacrifice good nutrition or a burger and fries on the run to the mall. Make shopping and holiday planning secondary to your health. Sounds easy, but it’s something you’ll need to remind yourself of over and over again in the coming month.
• Moderation is key. This can be a time when people overdo it because of the availability of so much great food and drink. However, it is so important to eat and drink in moderation if you are trying to maintain your health over the holidays. The best rule of thumb is small portions. Your waistline will thank you too!
• Get some rest. Remember, your body doesn’t care about the big party or how many gifts you have left to buy. It still needs the same amount of rest as any other time of the year. Treat your body right and perhaps it will be good to you.
• Try to fit in some exercise. Remember, your body doesn’t care about the big party or how it can be challenging to maintain your regular exercise routine over the holidays. But don’t underestimate the benefit of getting out for a walk, or maybe even a snowball fight! Be creative – fit in whatever you can, when you can, and you will thank yourself when New Year’s resolution time comes around.
• Treat yourself to a relaxing massage. Give your body a chance to relax and de-stress. It strengthens your immune system, which will help your body fight off those nasty cold or flu bugs and keep you healthy.