Being Well Over the Holidays

December 15, 2019
WELL Learning Library

Let’s be real, we all want to indulge over the holidays. And to be honest, you deserve it! The holidays are a time that we love to spend with family and friends, rest and recharge, and maybe even let loose with a holiday cocktail or two.

Champagne. Hot Toddies. Peppermint Mochas. Pie. Ice Cream. Chocolate. Cheese and Crackers. Ham. Gingerbread Houses. Turkey. Sugar Cookies. Prime Rib. Stuffing. Peppermint Bark. Yum yum.

Are you hungry yet? The point is, most of us are going to splurge a little this holiday season and that’s ok. Here are 5 habits you can implement for improved well-being during the hustle and bustle of the holidays, while still indulging in some holiday treats.

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Drinking water and staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your well-being. Make sure to drink lots of water and carry your canteen with you so that water is right there when you need it. Many health experts agree that being dehydrated can cause reduced energy, that drinking lots of water can help you lose weight, and that increased water intake can prevent certain health problems. So, always stay hydrated by drinking at least 8 glasses of 8 ounces of water every day.

2. Eat Sugar in Moderation.

Most of us are going to indulge in some sweets, maybe some holiday cocktails, and most likely a lot of food. Try to eat and drink alcoholic beverages in moderation, especially foods that are high in sugar. WebMD says that too much sugar can affect body weight, sexual health, organ health, tooth cavities, skin inflammation and aging, brain functioning and mood, and joint pain. Enjoy in moderation, but don’t go overboard!

3. Get Lots of Sleep.

Getting enough sleep is vital to our well-being. Use the holidays as a time to get lots of it. Most of us don’t get enough sleep throughout the year. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7-9 hours of sleep per night for adults 18-64 years old. And WebMD says that getting more sleep increases your brain’s sharpness, boosts your mood, increase heart health, improves athletic achievement, steadies blood sugar levels, fights illness, aides weight control. The holidays are busy and packed with commitments, but don’t forget to treat yourself and get the sleep you need.

4. Be Active.

You may not have time to work out or go to the gym, but you can always find activities to do with your friends and family that have you get out and move around. Go for a hike or walk around the neighborhood. Use the stairs. Park further away and walk to your destination. Or, check out these clever ways to get some quick exercise in, no matter where you are. None of them require a gym or anything other than your willingness to try them out!

5. Connect With Family and Friends.

Connection is something we need as humans, although many of us often forget this. According to Psychology Today, social connection strengthens our immune system, helps us recover from disease faster, increases our self-esteem and emotional well-being, and may even lengthen our life. Take the time to be with your friends and family. Find out what they are up to. Share what you’ve been up to. Come from love, gratitude, and acceptance, and this will create the space for connection to occur.

Take on these wellness tips and you will be ready to hit the ground “running” in the new year!

The WELL Learning Library team would like to wish you and your family a very special holiday season! However you choose to celebrate this time, be generous with yourself and others.

Being Well Over the Holidays

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

2. Eat Sugar in Moderation.

3. Get Lots of Sleep.

4. Be Active.

5. Connect With Family and Friends.

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