Thriving, Not Just Surviving: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Summer Holiday Season
The summer holidays are a time of joy, relaxation, and family gatherings. However, they can also be a stressful period, filled with endless social events, indulgent meals, and disrupted routines. But fear not, my friend! With a few simple strategies, you can navigate the festivities with ease and emerge feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Say Yes to the Dress (and the Delicious Food!)
Let's face it, the summer holidays are synonymous with festive gatherings, delicious food, and flowing drinks. While it's important to indulge in moderation (not sure they can even happen together, but let’s go with the idea for now), it's equally important to enjoy yourself without feeling guilty.
Here are a few tips to help you navigate the holiday feasting period:
Start with a healthy plate: Fill half your plate with colourful vegetables and lean protein.
Eat the protein first: Before you start drinking or eating, having a few bites of protein first will help you not overeat and steadily regulate your insulin levels. This helps with fat burning so while you’re shaking your groove thang on the dance floor - your burning stored energy at the same time! If you want to know more about that then sign up for my Metabolic Balance program.
Mindful eating: Don’t just pile up your plate and start shovelling food in while you’re talking to Barry from accounts or Sarah from marketing. Savor each bite and pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. If you’re going to eat it – take the time to enjoy it.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid overeating. And when I say plenty, think 2 – 3 litres – believe me – it’s going to help your digestion, energy and your liver.
Don't deprive yourself: Enjoy your favourite holiday treats just don’t throw them down with reckless abandon – see mindful eating above.
Master the Art of Relaxation
The holidays are a great time to relax and recharge. Here are a few tips to help you unwind:
Prioritise sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. And try to keep to a normal routine of when you go to bed and when you wake up. Now if you’re out dancing the night away and you get home after your bedtime, instead of sleeping in, get up at the normal time and if you need to catch some zzzz’s, take a 20 - 30 minute power nap in the afternoon.
Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to meditate or practice deep breathing. Some quiet time to reflect on how you’re feeling, what’s important and some gratitude time is just what the lifestyle doctor prescribes to stop your brain from going into overdrive.
Move your body: Go for a walk, do some yoga, or simply dance to your favourite tunes. This is a great time of year to meet up with friends and family – instead of doing it over a meal or a bottle of something, why not invite them out for some time in nature, beside the ocean, at the park or just a nice walk around the neighbourhood.
Spend time in nature: Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Get some morning sunshine and take deep cleansing breaths. Sit in the park to eat your lunch instead of in the staffroom or at your desk. Listen to nature sounds while you’re working and have a nature scene on your screen saver – believe it or not, science has shown that even a virtual nature scene has a positive effect on us (but real nature is best)!
Set Boundaries and Say No
It's okay to say no to social events that don't align with your priorities. Don't feel obligated to attend every party or family gathering. Say something like “I’d love to come and spend this time with you but I’m not available. Can we plan a date for in the new year?”
Remember, it's okay to take a break and prioritise self-care.
Embrace the Imperfect Holiday
The holidays aren't always picture-perfect. There may be (let’s face it, there will be) stress, disagreements, or unexpected challenges. Instead of striving for perfection, embrace the imperfections and focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with loved ones or quality time with self.
So, this holiday season, let's commit to thriving, not just surviving. By following these tips, you can enjoy the festivities without sacrificing your health and happiness.
But if you do overindulge and you know you’re going to need the stretchy pants when you go back to the office then get prepared and book in your Metabolic Balance program before the end of November.
Now is the perfect time to invest in your new year health journey. My Metabolic Balance program is currently 30% off for Black Friday. This personalised nutrition program will get you back on track - your weight, your hormones, your energy and your health goals. Use the coupon code: BlackFriday30 at the checkout to get the discount.
And keep an eye out for and join my #25DaysofGratitudeChallenge, starting on December 1st.
By practicing gratitude, you can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being.
Let's make this holiday season one to remember!
Love and light
ML