What is your holiday season wellness plan to cope with special events?
My first major point: no shopping. I make donations to charities in honor of people, and I have received only enthusiastic approval about that plan. Nobody wants another mug or t-shirt.
Second point: no extra cleaning. My house is clean enough all days of the year. Besides, I have a dog who doubles up as a vacuum cleaner at any time of year.
Having gotten those stressors our of the way, I just go and enjoy parties. If I choose to give one myself, I only do so because I consider it part of the fun and not part of the stress.
I only do what I truly want to do. I do not live up to other people’s expectations.
I plan ahead. I look at my week or sometimes just the day ahead and plan out what needs to get done. This helps me from feeling overwhelmed. I know what absolutely needs to get done and what I can wait on and do in the next day or two. I also schedule some me time and break out where I’m going to get my workout in and what meals I’ll be eatting. Then these don’t become stressors. I also identify what can wait and be passed up. My kids don’t really care if the carpet has been vaccumed as long as the presents are wrapped and under the tree come Christmas morning.
And in the last couple of years, I’ve learned to ask for help and to say no. I just can’t do it all myself. Sometimes passing up on “another” holiday party means I have more time for my family and quality time with them. I make sure to be where it counts…with the people who are always there for me throughout the year. That’s what Christmas is all about anyway!
Jasons View on the Holidays:
Instead of worrying about what you eating during the small span from thanksgiving and christmas – focus on the other 11 months that constantly impact your intake!
To put it in Perspective – Do not worry about indulging the large thanksgiving feast, holiday cookies, etc..
FOCUS ON: The 4 sodas you drink a day (Don’t care if its diet), 6 cups of coffee, Daily late night snacks. Slowly limit the foods/drinks that compose of overall diet on a regular basis!
Good Luck & Happy Holidays!
Fuel the Movement
JM