Holidays can be a beautiful time to spend with friends and family, but can also bring challenges that come with being out of routine and having less control over the schedule. For many, this disruption to their schedule may bring stress or feel like a threat as they worry about how to maintain “perfect” healthy habits or if they will fall off the metaphorical “band wagon.” Would it be a relief if we proposed that health during the holidays doesn’t have to look or feel that way?

Good news! It doesn’t. If you’ve worked with one of our dietitians, chances are you’ve heard us talk about the pillars of health – that health does include what we eat and how we move, but it’s much more than that. Here are some aspects of health during the holidays (and all the time!) to take into consideration:

Nourishing your body consistently. No need to “save up” for meals, desserts, etc. Rather than skipping meals and snacks, you can choose to fuel consistently and be mindful at meal times rather than ravenous.
Taking the opportunity to rest. Rest is a good thing and it can be very hard to come by in this crazy life. If you are able, take time to slow down, be still, and rest.
Moving in a way that feels enjoyable. It’s okay if your movement routine looks different over the holiday – maybe a family walk takes the place of your normal workout class. It’s also okay if you need to set boundaries to protect time for movement – holidays can be stressful and this can be a great way to prioritize mental health and self care. In both situations, make sure the movement you choose feels enjoyable and supports your health journey.
Considering both nutrition and taste preference in your food choices. We feel passionately that sustainable nutrition habits lie at the intersection of taste preference and nutrient density. When you plan a meal or serve your plate, try considering both what sounds good and how you can nourish and take care of your body.
Connecting with those you love. Connecting with others is a big part of our health and an aspect that is often overlooked. The holidays often provide a unique time to be with family and friends – let’s lean more into being present in the moment and creating memories, and less into seeking the ever elusive “perfect” eating.

Know that food and movement during the holidays may look pretty different from our day-to-day routine, and that’s okay – it’s a good thing to be able to be flexible and enjoy this time. With all this in mind, is there anything you might like to do differently this holiday season? Maybe it’s participating in the family Christmas cookie tradition, being more present during meals, prioritizing the moments and memories, or eating regularly rather than approaching eating with a “save up” mentality. Navigating food and the holidays can be challenging. If you would like to explore this more with one of our dietitians, give us a call – we would love to help!