The holiday season is a wonderful time of the year but it may also be a challenge to maintain a healthy lifestyle as schedules seem to get busier and festive food is tempting.

Maintaining a routine is important to a healthy lifestyle over the holidays and every day.  Use these tips to make a difference over time.

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Eat nourishing food. Pack healthy foods and bring your refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.  Drink fruit-infused water, coconut water, tap water, or tea instead of sugary beverages. Explore regionally and locally sourced produce and meats.  Try new recipes or take a cooking class to spice up meals and have fun.

Find time to exercise. Schedule time on the calendar or be spontaneous to bring a variety of activity into life.  Taking a walk outside at lunch and taking the stairs instead of the elevator are relatively easy to integrate.  Join the gym and/or get outdoors and hike, bike, ski, or snowshoe.  As a challenge, try a new sport!

 

Reduce Stress.  Incorporate relaxation, meditation, and other stress-reducing techniques which benefit the mind, body, and soul.  Yoga, reading a book, getting outside and connecting with nature can help to reduce stress.  Take a break and get plenty of rest. Disconnect from technology and the digital world to reconnect with loved ones, friends, and family on a personal level.

Stay motivated.  Establish reasonable goals and celebrate when they are achieved.  Involve others to make life exciting and motivating.

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Give Back.  Volunteerism and charitable donations are good for individuals, organizations, and the community.

Use a variety of methods to keep yourself engaged and on track.  Keep in mind that making healthy changes a little at a time are manageable and sustainable.

Good luck and Happy Holidays!