It’s that time of year when there are countless holiday parties overflowing with food, drinks and even more food. While so many people look forward to this time of year, we know that it can also give some of us pause, either because we know it can be stressful, or unhealthy, or simply overwhelming. We have put together some tips to help you survive the holidays by taking care of yourself.
Give Yourself a Break
The shopping, the decorating, the cooking and the partying – there is a lot going on. Remember to take some time for yourself when you can. Put up your feet for a few minutes, read a book or do whatever it is you need to do to recharge your batteries. No one wants to be burned out by the time the big day comes around.
Mind Your Teeth
The holidays can easily take you out of your routine of regular brushing and flossing. Our Charlotte dentist asks you to keep in mind that your teeth are particularly under attack at this time of year due to the sugary foods and drinks you will likely consume. Take the two minutes twice a day to brush your teeth – and make sure you do the same for your kids!
Enjoy Treats Without Overdoing It
We know that you might have a number of sweets coming into the house. Instead of leaving them sitting around where they will tempt you, you can freeze some for later, give some away and just keep a few pieces for yourself. Some other tricks for maintaining your weight over the holidays include:
- Don’t go to a party hungry, as it can lead to overindulging on unhealthy foods.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- Try to minimize the number of “tastes” you take while baking holiday treats.
Experts also advise burning off those extra calories. Chase the kids around the house, talk a walk after dinner or help clean up after a party.
Don’t Put Pressure on Yourself
This can be problematic for anyone. For example, people hosting parties feel the need to execute everything perfectly. Some people worry that their family is not picture-perfect (though no one’s is!). Pump the breaks on those kinds of thoughts and remember that this is a time of year to enjoy, not stress out. If your family is a source of stress, try to set limits. Perhaps only stay a night or two at their house, or decide on a timeframe for which you will attend a family gathering with a set endpoint for when you can leave.
Allow Yourself to Say “Yes” and “No”
Lastly, give yourself permission to do what it is you need to do to enjoy the season. If that means that perhaps you skip a holiday party because you are dreading it, then do it. If it means eating an extra piece of dark chocolate, then do it. Ask yourself what you want to get out of the holiday season for yourself and your family, and find a way to do it.
