The holidays can be a hard time of year to stay healthy which is ironic because it’s usually when we need our immune system the most to protect us from getting sick! With out of town visitors, holiday parties and family gatherings, it’s hard to stick to your normal healthy routine. Here’s a few tips about how to stay healthy during the holidays:

Tip #1 Get Moving

Go for a walk around the block with the family, play some catch in the yard, invite your in-laws to yoga with you, chase the kids around the house playing tag-whatever you can think of to stay active, it’s important this time of year to keep any kind of movement in your daily routine. Often times when we have family gatherings, it’s easy to feel sluggish and adopt a very sedentary lifestyle because of visiting with friends and family. Invite them out to do some fun movement with you! Getting those endorphins going is not only good for your physical health but for your mental health as well! A walk a day keeps the stress away!

Tip #2 It’s Okay to Indulge- Just Be Picky

Do you love Aunt Marie’s amazing dinner rolls, Nana’s chocolate chip cookies, or Marty’s fresh whipped cream? Do you have a favorite family dish that packs a loud punch of calories and guilt? Guilt no more! Choose your favorite-can’t live without it-brings back memories of my carefree childhood food. Eat it. Enjoy it. Savor it. Only have one serving. Can’t choose? Have a small bite of a few favorites and fill the rest of your plate with the healthy options that you know will do your body/mind good! It’s okay to indulge if you don’t overdo it.

Tip #3 Fill Your Heart

Catching up with friends and family and sharing love, laughter and making new memories is what the holiday season is all about. Enjoy the presence of loved ones and your holidays will definitely be healthy, merry and bright.

Let me know any favorite ways you like to stay healthy during the holiday season in the comments below!