Have a Happier, Healthier Holiday with These Tips

When you think about the holiday season, what comes to mind? Candy and cookies, candles and light, garland, holly, and brightly wrapped gifts might be at the top of your list. Anxiety, stress, and frustration may take up the next few spots.

We want you to enjoy the season, so today, we’re sharing tips for maintaining a happy body, happy mind, and happy heart for the holidays.

Happy Body

The holidays aren’t holidays without food. Most of us are surrounded by delicious treats, from holiday parties to workplace cookie exchanges, and it’s hard to say no. Additionally, the holiday season often disrupts your regular schedule, which can take you out of a healthy eating and regular exercise routine. Although some indulgences are great, the season lasts for several weeks. It can easily send your body into a tailspin with an upset stomach, sluggishness, and excessive tiredness. But there are ways to maintain good physical health and still enjoy the good food and relaxation the season brings:

• Use a smaller plate to avoid overeating
• Eat veggies first to give your body essential nutrients before you eat sweets and carbs
• Choose your favorite dish or two for a no-guilt splurge
• Get plenty of sleep
• Make time to move—even a short after-meal walk can help
• Avoid excessive alcohol and sugar

Small swaps can help you feel better physically without sacrificing the tasty treats you love.

Happy Mind

Holidays can be stressful and difficult for many people, especially those with mental health conditions. One study found 64% of people with mental illness reported the holidays worsened their condition. Here are some ways you can reduce stress and maintain your mental health during the holidays:

• Acknowledge your feelings and what you can control
• Understand your triggers and try to avoid or limit exposure to them
• Avoid over-scheduling
• Set a reminder to take mental health meds to stay on track with medical treatment
• Accept help when you need it
• Don’t skip regularly scheduled coaching or therapy sessions
• Eat nutritious foods, get sleep, and set aside time for yourself
• Establish boundaries and maintain them

Although you may still feel some stress and anxiety, these tips may help you manage this high-stress time of year.

Happy Heart

With the hustle and bustle of the season—buying gifts, cooking, traveling, and decorating—many forget to reflect on the meaning of our collective winter holidays: togetherness, thankfulness, and joy. Here are some ideas for slowing down and connecting with your thoughts and feelings:

• Write a gratitude list of everything you’ve been thankful for this year
• Do deep breathing exercises to slow your heart rate and clear your mind
• Get in touch with your senses while enjoying holiday treats: how do they taste, smell, and feel?
• Take a short self-guided meditation course

Mindfulness is a great tool to help manage depression and anxiety during the holidays and all year long.

Our holiday wellbeing tips can help you appreciate the holiday season and start the new year healthier and happier. Uprise Health offers many tools to help you maintain balance, practice mindfulness, and stay healthy. Visit your member portal to access health resources. Or visit the Uprise Health blog to discover more tips!