And just like that, we are into December – official Christmas season, busiest time of the year, and the last month of 2024.  Are you feeling holly and jolly or stressed and exhausted?

It just might come as a surprise if I told you that what you really  need in your life is exercise and healthy foods.  I’m sure you’re thinking – seriously?  ONE MORE THING?!  Well, with love and sincerity, YES!  Here’s the hidden thing about exercise. . . it’s MORE beneficial emotionally and mentally than it is physically.  I promise!  Any time you move your body – dancing, lifting, running, stretching, walking – your brain releases chemicals called dopamine and endorphins.  These make you feel happy and energized!  When I say exercise, I don’t mean you have to dedicate hours each day and slave away at a gym.  All you have to do is plug in 20 to 30 minutes!  Maybe once you’re good and awake, you get in a little pilates or yoga, get some steps in on a treadmill or pedal on a stationary bike, do some pushups and situps, or even dance around your room as you get ready.  Since it’s the Christmas season, plug in some Christmas music and rock around your Christmas tree!  Any exercise gives your body the very best outlet to release stored stress!  You’ll feel better, your mood will be happier, and you’ll find that you have just a little more energy.

And then there’s the other tricky thing:  healthy foods.  Tis the season for parties, cookies, baking, eating out and on the run. . . I completely understand!  Just keep in mind that sugar increases inflammation, decreases your immune system, and leads to major energy crashes.   Be intentional and strategic about your meals this season.  Keep prepping healthy meals and take those with you when you can.  Make sure you prioritize getting in lean protein with each meal.  It IS possible, I promise!!!  Order grilled chicken and seafood over fried, and lean cuts of steak.  Order baked potatoes, veggies of the day or salads with vinaigrette dressing  when available side substitutions.  Getting in healthy nutrition goes a long way in keeping you fueled up appropriately for marathon days that include working, shopping, transporting children to and from practices and school events, and those Christmas gatherings and parties.  YES, by all means, enjoy the parties and treats!  If you’ve balanced your meals with healthy choices, these treats won’t be terrible.  I’m willing to bet that the vast majority of holiday gatherings will have a few healthy options with veggie trays, sandwiches with protein sources, and maybe less sugary dips.  Even the occasional festive drink is fine.  All of these party things in moderation will keep you humming along.

With the colder weather setting in just in time for all of the holiday things, our immune systems can become compromised.  Be sure you’re taking your vitamins, especially Vitamins C and D, drinking plenty of water, and minimize your sugar intake as much as possible!  Make getting quality sleep a priority. Keeping your diet balanced with healthy choices and keeping your body moving with some form of exercise will go a very long way toward keeping you healthier.  

Enjoy your holidays!  Make precious, wonderful memories with your friends and families!!  Christmas time is absolutely magical, and only lasts for a minute.  So soak it all in. . . January is right around the corner, bringing in a whole new year.  In your few moments of down time, reflect on all you’ve accomplished in 2024 and what you would like to achieve in 2025.  Investing in that healthy balance right now will insure smooth sailing for you and your new 2025 goals!!

As always, I’m here to help!  Please feel free to email or message me if you would like to chat about your goals and how best to achieve them!

Merry Christmas!!!