Ways Holidays can Ruin your Health
Holidays are a time for taking a break from work, having fun and being with friends and family. Unfortunately, holiday activities may also involve high stress levels, lack of sleep, overindulgence and a lack of exercise. However, following a few simple tips can ensure the holidays are enjoyed, without taking a toll on health and fitness.
The build-up to a holiday may be stressful, there is so much to organise along with the usual daily commitments. A good way to minimise the stress brought on by the holiday season, is to plan as much as possible, as early as practicable. Gifts, decorations and cards can be bought or made at any time of year and some grocery shopping and baking can be prepared in advance. Many individuals have high expectations at the holidays, asking for help may provide some relief at a busy time of year.
If preparations have been left to the last minute, compiling a list of priorities can reduce feelings of stress. During the holiday season, taking time out to read a magazine, indulge in a warm bath or relax in front of the television, can give an individual a well deserved rest, release stress and provide more motivation and energy to dive back into holiday preparations the following day.
Experts recommend activity such aswalking for 30 minutes a day, most days of the week. Walking can reduce stress, boost mood, work off excess calories and has many more health benefits. Many individuals don’t allow time for exercise during the holidays, but at times of stress and overindulgence, it’s more important than ever.
Many individuals don’t make sleep a priority at holiday time, but sleep is also important during stressful, busy times.Sleepis the body’s way of repairing and preparing for the next day’s activities. Putting aside one night a week, to go to bed early and catch up on sleep will lead to more productivity and enjoyment in the long term.
Holidays can be a time of overindulgence, whether it is with alcohol, food or too many late nights. Enjoying a few drinks or a slice of cake is fine, as long as it’s done in moderation. Drinking a glass of water between alcoholic drinks is a great idea, this will reduce the amount of alcohol consumed, reduce calorie intake and rehydrate the body.
If overeating is a probable, having a light snack before leaving for a meal, paying attention to the food being eaten and taking a walk after the meal can reduce calorie intake and burn off calories too.
The holidays can be harmful to health and fitness, but they don’t need to be. Taking time to recharge, exercise and release stress, can lead to a healthier, happier holiday.
