Entering the holiday season can look very different for moms, as this time of year can be filled with so many mixed emotions. From the happiness you feel seeing friends and family, to the stress of buying lots of holiday presents, it’s hard to predict how these next couple of months will make you feel. While this isn't my first holiday season as a mom, I’ve learned some crucial tips that have helped me navigate this often trying time. Here at Fit4MOM, we’ve created a list of our top three tips to help you navigate the holidays.
Develop a Self-Care Routine
During the busy holidays, most people find themselves bouncing around between events and parties, having company over, or maybe even traveling out of state to see family and friends. While this can all be a lot of fun, it’s also very easy to get overwhelmed by the lack of down time, especially if you’re not taking care of yourself. Developing some form of a self-care routine can help bring peace and mind in the midst of all the chaos. There are many ways you can prioritize yourself, and every mom has their own preference; so start small and find something that works for you. If you’re on the road a lot, you might find yourself mentally exhausted by the end of each trip. Try exploring meditation techniques before your next trip to help relax and prepare for the journey. Finding some time for yourself not only helps your mental state, but prepares you for the many busy days ahead.
Avoid Sweet Temptations
The holidays can be tough not only on your stress levels, but also your overall health. Tasty sweet treats are everywhere you look and falling off of your diet can be incredibly easy. While it’s certainly okay to treat yourself every once and a while, it’s especially important to stay on top of your health and avoid overindulging. You’ve worked hard all year to hit your goals, so don’t let them fall to shambles in the last month of the year. To help curb those cravings during the holiday season, fill up on protein, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables first. Doing this allows you to prioritize the nutrient dense foods your body needs before opting for empty calories. In addition, making sure that you’re constantly hydrated will help you fight off those sweet tooth cravings. The way the body senses hunger is almost indistinguishable to that of being thirsty. When you feel that sensation, try going for a cup of water first. There’s a very good chance that the hunger you were feeling was just your body’s way of asking you to hydrate. Need some extra accountability? Join our BODY WELL Holiday Mini Session! For 4 weeks we will offer all the support you need to fit in those workouts, eat to fuel your body and have fun while doing it!
Put Your Needs First
While in the season of giving, it can be so easy to lose track of your own needs. Especially when you’re a mom, everyone else’s needs usually come first. This is our friendly reminder to you that you need to listen to what your body is telling you. Whether you’ve been putting off some important doctors appointments or lunch dates with some friends, now is the time to follow through before the year comes to a close. Thankfully, when it comes to your medical needs, it’s now incredibly easy to keep up to date with your health from the coziness of your own home. Regardless of if you’re meeting with a doctor virtually to discuss a medical concern or simply researching different types of contact lenses to update your prescription, having an internet connection affords you the opportunity to keep tabs on all areas of your health. Taking advantage of online services is especially helpful as a mom because it can be so difficult to block out enough time to actually go to these appointments in person. When it comes to making time for social gatherings with friends, if you can’t find enough time to go out for lunch, try inviting them over instead. This takes the stress out of going out while also having to keep tabs on your children. People often have the misconception that need’s are only physical objects. Nourishing all aspects of your needs while navigating this season will help you put your best foot forward no matter what life throws at you.
The Bottom Line
If you find yourself struggling a little extra this year, know that you’re not alone. We’ve all had to climb many mountains unexpectedly this year and collectively over the past couple of years. Take this holiday season one step at a time and put your health at the forefront every day. Even if you fall short in some areas, understand that you’re human and it’s okay. Keep a “better is best” mentality. Tomorrow is another day to get back on track and crush those goals.