3 WAYS TO STAY ENERGIZED THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

26 Dec 2015

By Kelsey Duncan, Naturopathic Intern

The holidays are upon us, and with this joyous time usually comes extra family obligations, busy shopping malls and sleepless nights leaving you feeling run down. Taking care of yourself during this time will help you survive the holidays with pep in your step and minimal bags under your eyes.

1: Stick to your fitness routine as much as possible

It can be easy to stop heading to the gym or rolling out your yoga mat in order to finish up that holiday prep. However, sticking to your normal routine during this time will help you better cope with the added stress the holiday’s can bring. Exercise increases your body’s natural feel-good hormones, making you instantly feel more energized and ready to take on the day.

2: Limit your treat intake

It’s easy to chow down on that box of Christmas cookies for an afternoon pick me up – which helps for a while, until the crash. Sugar causes an initial spike in energy, which isn’t sustainable, so the body enjoys its hour of power before you’re dragging yourself around the house. If you need to indulge, limit yourself to a small amount.

3: Avoid the binge dinner

Holiday dinners are never a small feat, from the turkey to various sides it can be hard to limit yourself. When we eat large meals our body struggles to digest and we tend to feel slow, sluggish and even nauseous at times as our digestive system works overtime to process that extra food. Avoid the binge by opting for a smaller dinner plate and sticking to normal portion sizes. Don’t forget there are always leftovers for tomorrow!

Bonus Tip: You don’t always have to say “no”. Always remember to say “yes” to working out with your girlfriends or spending non-holiday themed time with your partner. You may feel busy, but remember to do the things that make your soul happy this holiday season.

ABOUT KELSEY DUNCAN

Kelsey Duncan will be joining Natural Choice Medical Clinic in Guelph as our very own Naturopathic Intern. Kelsey is in her final semester of the 4 year Naturopathic Medical program and will be seeing patients from January to April at Natural Choice Medical Clinic as part of her studies. She will be working under the supervision of Dr. Harmonie Eleveld, ND.