December can be the most exciting yet most exhausting month of the year. We often get run down and anxious with all of the shopping, parties and family gatherings. The holiday season is a great time start infusing extra portions of peace, freedom, and joy into your life. The following tips will help you manage stress, reduce anxiety and feel your best entering the New Year.
- Learn to say no – without guilt. Know your limits and ensure you aren’t taking on too much. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Plan early and schedule time for yourself; grab a tea with a friend or take a catnap in between the hustle and bustle.
- Stay hydrated and say no to that extra holiday beverage. Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and staying well-nourished will help prevent fatigue, mood swings and reduce the incidence of colds and flu.
- Stick to your budget – the holiday season should be more about spending time with your loved ones and less about gifts. Financial stress plays a large role in feeling overwhelmed in December and January. Be creative and talk to your family and friends about gift exchanges that don’t require a lot of money.
- Nourish yourself and take your supplements regularly during this time. Vitamin D is one of the most deficient nutrients I see in patients during the winter months. Vitamin D plays an important role in our mood (preventing Seasonal Affective Disorder), immune system as well as bone health and hormonal systems. Grab a relaxation massage with your leftover extended health care budget. Zinc and probiotics are also key supplements to improve our immune function and keeping our digestive systems happy and healthy. Ask your naturopathic physician what doses would be ideal for you.
- Nourish your adrenal glands. By doing so, you’ll prevent holiday weight gain, improve your stress response, prevent chronic fatigue and reduce the holiday blues. B vitamins and adaptogenic herbs can be help with this.
- Lastly, take deep breaths and remember to enjoy the moments with your loved ones.
Yours in health,
Dr. Jennifer Vidmar B.Sc., ND
Happy Holidays from the Rebalance London Wellness Team!
