The holidays bring laughter and joy, but they often become overwhelming and stressful in a hurry. Schedules fill up while our wallets empty, and endless obligations can leave us feeling exhausted with little time to think about healthy routines. Use the tips below to stay on track and enjoy the season.

Be Mindful

Take a moment to be present. When practicing mindfulness, you can be more intentional about your daily decisions. Think about how much you’re committing to and where you can create more balance in your day. You can practice mindfulness in every aspect of your holidays, including planning, spending, eating, and exercising. To be more mindful, pause, practice deep breathing, and ask yourself reflection questions. These questions help to understand the what and why behind your choices.

Plan Ahead

It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season that we forget to plan. We tend to add more events without considering our efforts towards healthy habits. Plan to incorporate some activity into a busy day, even if it’s not your usual exercise routine. Contemplate food choices before arriving at a party. Set a budget before starting your holiday spending. Consider writing down your plans and revisiting them often to help keep your priorities visual.

Know Your Limitations

Sometimes, we bite off more than we can chew during the holiday season, which feels more overwhelming than joyful. Know and acknowledge how much is too much. Say no when your plate is getting too full. Prioritize things that align with your values and level of importance.

Set Realistic Expectations

Be realistic with your time, finances, and expectations. The holidays bring unusual schedules, so adapt and alter your approach to healthy habits accordingly. Healthy habits don’t have to be an all-or-none approach. Sometimes, finding one small way to continue your efforts can help carry you through the holiday craziness. Focusing on perfection can create unnecessary frustration or abandonment of healthy habits altogether.

Enjoy the Season

Take time to enjoy the season. Try not to turn every moment into a checklist or an event. Reflect on important things with family and friends. If you’re having trouble slowing down and cherishing the moment, try making a gratitude list. Practicing graciousness will shift your perspective and put your focus on the celebrations of the season.

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