The winter season brings in the wonder of lights, family gatherings, good food and cheer. Get out your hats, scarves, parkas, sweaters and boots. For many families it is the most joyous time of year. But for many others, who have lost family members or dear friends it can be a time of isolation , depression and illness. Here are 5 ways to take special care of yourself and loved ones during the Holidays.
Reach out and connect with family members and friends. You would be surprised what a 10-minute phone call, a GIF, emoji, or inspirational text - "Thinking of you," can do to uplift someone's spirit.
Take walks in the park or outside in the sun. During the winter months, when our bodies are exposed to less sunlight and vitamin D, we are more susceptible to colds.
You can offset this by eating more egg yolks, fatty fish, mushrooms or vitamin D fortified foods. You might also invest in vitamin D supplements (consult your healthcare specialist). Others purchase UV lightbulbs that produce sunlight indoors.
Monitor your thoughts. Use positive affirmations or read scripture to stay focused on gratitude, and to celebrate that you have made it through another year of life.
Remember to continue your exercise program. Just 20-30 minutes of movement per day is all you need to stay fit. I usually search for a 20-minute, full body workout on YouTube.
Practice generosity. Look around your house for items, clothing and appliances that you no longer use. Do you have duplicates of the same boot in 3 different colors? Donating to charities or giving monetary gifts can boost your mood and count as a tax write off.
Watch your alcohol intake. Too much holiday cheer and toasting can leave you feeling dehydrated, depleted and drained. Substitute or double up on your water intake or add a lemon to spruce it up. Remember to drink at least 1/2 your body weight in ounces of water daily. So if you weigh 160 pounds, your body will require 80 ounces of water- that's about 5-16 ounce bottles of water per day. Drink more if you are working out.
Honor and protect your body's rest time. It is okay to help others but refrain from over committing. Placing boundaries around your "me time" is essential for your well-being. Once you are replenished you will have more to give of yourself to others.
Finally, take advantage of some free or inexpensive festivities around town, such as your public library, museums, or festival of lights. Check Eventbrite and put in your zip code. Do these and you will be open to receive the many blessings the new year will bring!