How to avoid the post-holiday health slump in 2023
Ah, the festive break, something you’ve likely been hanging out for in at least the past few months. Counting down to that coveted period when most people check out of work and enjoy some much-needed time with friends, family, and loved ones.
I don’t know about you, but I can feel exhausted before the holiday season even begins. The pressure of all of the social catch-ups, Christmas prep for the kids, making sure you don’t miss anyone when present shopping, office Kris Kringles, work parties, school parties, gifts for teachers, packing for holidays - someone please offer me a festive drink and a lie-down!
Something I’ve noticed is that people tend to let their healthy habits slip over this period - exercise gets sidelined in favour of social commitments, homemade lunches are replaced with indulgent lunches out, and prepacked snacks are left untouched when the endless boxes of office chocolates and Christmas treats are passed round.
Now, I’m not one to deny a bit of indulgence over this time. Something I advocate strongly for is being present and enjoying this time of year for what it is; and that is coming together with people you love and connecting in enjoyable ways. If that means a few extra chocolates and cocktails, so be it.
“Your health is not defined by what you do and eat in the one week between Christmas and new year. It’s what you do the other 51 weeks that matters”
That being said, when I deliver workshops and see clients in the early part of the year, the questions I receive are about recovering from Christmas over-indulgence. People tend to feel like they are starting from square one with their fitness and health, and need to make major overhauls to get their health back on track.
If that’s you, let me help with some practical tips for you to consider over the next few weeks to avoid that feeling early in 2023.
My top tips for avoiding the post-holiday health slump
Keep your body moving: If you are on a break from work, you have a number of extra hours at your disposal. What a luxury! Aim for a minimum of 30min of moderate exercise every day. It doesn’t have to be anything onerous; a brisk walk, heading to the beach for a swim, playing with your dog or kids at the park, or a walking catch-up with a friend. Exercise not only reduces stress, but it helps to support healthy metabolism of the delicious festive food 🎄
Prioritise yourself every day: If like me, you’re a parent, it can be easy to spend all of this time focusing on others. Self-care isn’t all massages and facials, but finding an opportunity every single day to do something just for you. This could look like a walk with a friend, staying in bed with a cup of tea for a bit extra in the morning, reading a book, whatever it is that brings you joy. Your nervous system will thank you and you’ll be a better partner / friend / parent for it.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: One of the simplest ways to maintain your health, water! Not drinking enough water can lead to things like brain fog, headaches, irritability, and fatigue. Aim for around 2L a day by carrying a water bottle everywhere with you.
Sleep: Sleep is your superpower! Support a healthy sleep regime with daily sun exposure, a winddown routine at night (like a warm shower or herbal tea), and a similar sleep / waking time every day. If you struggle with your sleep, you might like to consider a Magnesium supplement (glycinate is good) to support calming your nervous system and quality sleep. If you struggle with sleep, grab my free GUIDE TO BETTER SLEEP HERE
Eat the rainbow: A simple strategy I offer my clients is adding ON fruits and veggies to your typical meals rather than restricting other foods. An example could be a rocket salad with pizza, extra serving of veggies with Christmas lunch, breakfast fritters packed with veggies, or grating extra veggies into your mince dishes. The fibre from fruits and vegetables keeps you fuller for longer whilst also supporting healthy digestion.
Simple steps are sustainable. You don’t need to feel guilty about indulging a little when you balance it out with some healthy habits every day. So eat, drink and be mindful 🥂
Want to improve wellbeing in your workplace in 2023?
I work with businesses across the globe offering a suite of workshops and individual nutrition support that can be delivered virtually or in person.
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I help people with a range of health conditions including stress, fatigue, gut health, pre and postnatal, menopause, menstrual disorders, autoimmune conditions and weight loss. The journey begins with a complimentary discovery call so you can tell me about you, hear about how I work and decide if it’s a fit.