12 Reminders for a Healthy, Happy Christmas

'Tis the season to be jolly! For many, the festive period brings an abundance of delicious food, late nights, and changes to our usual routines. This is all part of the magic of the holidays, and it’s important to approach this time with flexibility and grace. Remember, a few indulgent weeks are just a small moment in the grand scheme of the year.

For those who want to enjoy the festivities while staying mindful of their well-being, I’ve put together 12 simple and practical tips to help you embrace a balanced and nourishing Christmas season. Let’s dive in!

1. A Guilt-Free Christmas

The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed, not endured with guilt. Food is more than fuel; it’s culture, connection, and celebration. Give yourself permission to savour your favourite festive treats without judgment. A single indulgent meal won’t derail your health goals - it’s the pattern of your habits that matters most. Release the "all-or-nothing" mindset and embrace balance instead.

2. Social Eating and Gut Health

Christmas is a time for shared meals and communal joy. Did you know that eating with others can actually support gut health? Social eating promotes mindful consumption, reduces stress and promotes the sharing of microbes which can lead to greater microbial diversity in the gut. So, pull up a chair and enjoy the company as much as the food.

3. Avoid the "All or Nothing" Mindset

The festive season often tempts us to throw balance out the window. However, it doesn’t have to be a choice between complete restriction and overindulgence. Aim for a middle ground: enjoy the mince pies, but also include colourful veggies on your plate. This balance helps maintain a healthy relationship with food while allowing you to enjoy the best of the season.

4. Stay Hydrated

Amidst the festivities, it’s easy to forget about water. Dehydration can leave you feeling tired, bloated, and sluggish. Keep a water bottle handy, sip herbal teas, or add festive twists to your water with cranberry and mint. Remember, soups and broths also contribute to your hydration and staying hydrated is a simple way to feel your best during the celebrations.

5. Prioritise Sleep

Late nights are common during Christmas, but consistent sleep is vital for energy, mood, and immunity support. Reduce screen time before bed, dim the lights, and consider calming teas or magnesium supplements to wind down. Sleep is your body’s natural reset button, and prioritising rest will help you enjoy the holidays to the fullest.

6. Balance Treats with Nutrients

Festive foods are a joy, but balance them with nutrient-dense options. Add colourful sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, pomegranate salads, or honey-glazed carrots. These dishes provide essential vitamins and fibre while enhancing your festive table. 

7. Move Daily 

The rich foods and downtime of the holidays can leave us feeling sluggish. Incorporate movement into your days with fun, festive activities like a scenic walk, a trip to the ice rink, or a dance party to your favourite holiday tunes. Even small movements, like light stretching or a quick at-home workout, can help you feel energised. 

8. Be Wise Around Alcohol 

Enjoy the festive season without overindulging in alcohol. Opt for vibrant mocktails like a cranberry spritz or mulled apple, or dress up sparkling water with fresh fruit and herbs. To stay balanced, alternate alcoholic drinks with water, sip slowly, and include alcohol-free days. This way, you can celebrate with your favourite beverage while staying hydrated, energised, and in control.

9. Practice Mindful Eating

The holiday table can be overwhelming with its abundance of choices. Practising mindful eating allows you to savour each bite and appreciate the different flavours and textures of your plate whilst listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Put down your fork between bites, enjoy distraction free meals, and engage your senses to fully enjoy your meal. This approach helps prevent overeating and enhances the joy of the season.

10. Don’t Skip Breakfast

A nourishing breakfast stabilises blood sugar levels and sets the tone for balanced eating throughout the day. Think oatmeal with festive spices, bubble and squeak with eggs, or Greek yoghurt with cinnamon spiced granola and stewed pears. Skipping breakfast can lead to energy dips and lead to overeating, making mindful choices more challenging.

11. Manage Holiday Stress

Christmas can be as stressful as it is joyful. Practice stress management with deep breathing, journaling, or mindfulness practices. Adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha or Rhodiola may also help your body adapt to stress (always consult your healthcare provider first). Remember, it’s okay to say no, put boundaries in place and protect your peace when the season feels overwhelming.

12. Stay Active with Loved Ones

Make movement a festive family, friends or household affair. Take a walk to admire Christmas lights, organise a snowball fight (if you’re lucky enough to receive some Christmas snow), or play a light-hearted game of frisbee. These activities promote physical health, foster connection, and create cherished memories. 

A Season of Joy, Not Perfection

Ultimately, the heart of the season is joy, connection, and gratitude. By embracing balance and prioritising your well-being, you can enjoy the festivities without compromising your health. Here’s to a merry, mindful Christmas. Cheers to you and your loved ones!