Healthy Holiday Tips

Depending on your circumstances, the holiday season can be fun, frightening, or a little bit of both. Some of us look forward to gathering with friends and family. Others, not so much. Good, bad, or in between, there is a certain amount of stress associated with this time of year, and a whole lot of temptation. Fortunately, we are here to offer solutions to help keep you healthy and calm during the holiday season and beyond.

Tips for a Healthier Holiday

Here are a few of our favorite tips to keep you looking great as we send off 2019 and welcome 2020.

Indulge in moderation and use healthy substitutes, where possible.

We are surrounded by holiday treats no matter where we go. Chocolate chip cookies at the office, homemade desserts at family gatherings, and cocktail parties every other weekend. It is okay to enjoy the occasional treat during the holidays, but me mindful of your consumption. When it comes to healthy holiday eating, moderation is key. Our recommendation is this: Have a slice of pie at Christmas dinner, but limit it to one. Enjoy a glass of red wine instead of beer, and skip the treats you know you just don’t need, or really want. If you’re cooking, swap the heavy cream for greek yogurt in your mashed potatoes, and incorporate lots of great-tasting veggies into your holiday meal. Pro-Tip: Located in the Bay Area? Our experts can help you find the right diet plan for you with the Rebalance medical weight loss program. Learn about healthy holiday eating and more with a free consultation. (available at select clinics only)

Find a diet and exercise routine that works for you and you can stick to.

Do you know what the most common New Year’s resolution is? If you guessed eat better, you won, and if you guessed exercise more, you’re correct as well. We’re all busy, but setting aside 2-3 times a week to exercise can help keep the stress (and the pounds) away during the holidays. That doesn’t always have to mean the most vigorous of workouts. A quick half hour run, a dance class with friends, or a holiday 5k can be a great way to stay active. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that you enjoy, and it will be easier to stick to when life gets overwhelming.

Don’t neglect your skin!

Don’t fall off the bandwagon. Follow your regular skin care routine, and always wear sunscreen, even if the weather is snowy and overcast. If you’re traveling and don’t want to pack all of your products with you, Lynzy Rigby, RN at SkinSpirit Palo Alto, suggests packing just the staples. “My biggest recommendations to bring with you is your cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen,” she says. “These are key products that your skin will always benefit from! PLEASE avoid using hotel products, as they can be drying to the skin and we are never full sure what ingredients they are made with.” Pro Tip: You can get one of your favorite products 50% off for the month of December, when you buy two products at full price. Shop here.

Keep the stress at bay

The best advice we can offer you is also the simplest: keep calm. Even those of us looking forward to the holidays will experience some level of stress. It can keep you from sleeping, cause circles under your eyes and dull your skin. It can weaken your immune system, and it can impact your mood. We know all about it. The best thing to do is to use these techniques, so you can stay stress-free through the holidays, and your skin will reflect that.