Holidays can be a fun, exciting time of year, but can also be busy and stressful. With the colder weather, less daylight, and COVID-19, it can seem harder than ever to take care of yourself. But, it’s not as hard as you think. Here are some helpful tips for staying healthy during the holidays.

1. Get enough sleep.

Being well-rested helps you feel better. Make an effort to get to bed on time and get 7-8 hours of sleep. Prepare for bedtime. Create an ideal sleep environment that’s cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using a fan or earplugs. Do a calming activity before bed like reading or taking a bath. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol. Turn the TV, phone, computer off 30 minutes before bed.

2. Make small adjustments to your favorite meals.

Everyone has family traditions like green bean casserole or sweet potatoes with marshmallows. Can you take one part of the meal and make it healthier this year? Instead of green bean casserole, how about fresh green beans. Replace mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower. Remove the marshmallows from the sweet potatoes. Try substituting just one healthier dish this year.

3. Snack little healthier.

Many people like to set up snacks to munch on before the big meal. This can be a great time for people to fill up on healthier items. Set out a fresh tray of veggies and dip or fresh fruit. Try a variety of nuts or a bowl of popcorn without butter, and watch the salt. You’ll be amazed at how people will eat healthier options if they are set out for them.

4. Take time to enjoy your dessert.

Everything fits in a well-balanced meal so don’t deny yourself dessert. Allow yourself to indulge in your favorite holiday treats but take a mini portion, and save another mini portion for another day. Eat slowly and savor it!

5. Think about what you drink.

Many people don’t realize that there can be as much as ¼ cup of sugar in a can of pop. Many mixed drinks like margaritas or daiquiris also contain a lot of sugar. You can still have that favorite beverage, just do it in moderation.

6. Get up and move your body.

Being active makes you feel better, and getting out in nature can have a calming, positive effect that lifts your spirits. Combine the two by taking a walk in a park or on a nature trail. Don’t be afraid to walk in the cold. You can stay warm by dressing in layers. Don’t like to walk? Even something as simple as stretching or marching in place while you watch TV can help get the blood pumping and stretch your muscles from all the sitting or standing.

7. Try a fun new family activity.

Here are some fun family activities that will get you moving after your meal.

    • Play a game of charades. Try reverse charades to get more people moving.
    • When’s the last time you danced in the kitchen or living room? Turn up the music and get dancing.
    • Travel to different areas of the house and do an activity.
    • Go on a nature scavenger hunt – look for an animal, three different kinds of trees, a blue door, fire hydrant, nest, pine cone, leaf.
    • Go on a family walk. Getting out in the fresh air will help your mood and get your body burning those calories. Walking alone? Wear earbuds and listen to a podcast or talk to family while you walk.

How are you staying healthy and active this season? Share your tips in the comments below.