Embrace the Season: Our Guide to a Healthy(ish) and Happy Festive Break
As the festive season approaches, it's the perfect time to not only celebrate with loved ones but also to prioritize yourself.
If you're fortunate enough to have a break from work, you can make the most of the festive break without the guilt or fear of de-training and spending hours away from family and friends.
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Soak Up the Sun: Take advantage of your time off by getting as much sunlight as possible. Exposure to natural light has numerous health benefits, including boosting mood and improving sleep. Aim for at least 60 minutes of outdoor movement each day, whether it's a brisk walk, a jog, or a leisurely bike ride.
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Hydration and Balance: While festive gatherings often include alcoholic drinks balance them out by having something non-alcoholic after every two alcoholic drinks, have a glass of water. Staying hydrated helps prevent fatigue.
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Digital Detox: Give yourself the gift of a digital detox. Cut down on phone screen time and limit exposure to social media. Use this break to connect with today, fostering deeper connections with those around you when time slows down a little.
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Nutrient-Rich Choices: As you enjoy the festive feasts (yes you should indulge sometimes), also make an effort to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your meals. These nutrient-rich choices not only contribute to your overall health but also provide the energy needed to fully enjoy the holiday season.
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Early Sunlight Exposure: Maximize the benefits of sunlight by getting exposure early in the day. This can help regulate your circadian rhythm, improve sleep quality, and enhance your overall mood. Consider taking a morning stroll or enjoying breakfast on a sunlit patio.
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Mindful Caffeine Consumption: While a cup of coffee or tea can be a delightful part of your morning routine, consider cutting down on caffeine intake after 2 pm. This can contribute to better sleep quality, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to embrace the day.
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Express Gratitude: Take a moment to express gratitude to those who support and inspire you in pursuing your passions. Whether it's a mentor, a colleague, or a friend, acknowledging their contribution can strengthen your connections and create a positive ripple effect.
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Socialize and Enjoy: The festive season is the perfect time to be social and enjoy the company of others. Whether it's a small gathering or a virtual meetup, engage in meaningful conversations, share laughter, and create lasting memories with friends and family.
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Commit to a Festive Race/Challenge: Maintain motivation by committing to a festive race or challenge. Whether it's a Turkey trot or a post-Christmas 5km race, having a set time and place will keep you accountable. Return home with a race medal, feeling both accomplished and ready for a celebratory lunch.
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Plan/Visualize/Goal Map: Use the rare downtime to look ahead to the next season. Plan and visualize your goals, milestones, and the steps needed to achieve them. By the end of the holidays, you'll be physically refreshed, mentally charged, and eager to dive back into focused training.
Conclusion
As you navigate the festivities, remember that your well-being is a precious gift to yourself. By incorporating these mindful practices into your holiday break—soaking up sunlight, staying active, maintaining balance, embracing a digital detox, choosing nutrient-rich foods, prioritizing early sunlight exposure, being mindful of caffeine, expressing gratitude, and s social connections—you can ensure a festive season that nurtures both your body and spirit. Embrace the joy of the season!