The holiday season is a time to spend time with loved ones, enjoying meals, and sitting around the fire sipping hot chocolate (…or mulled wine!) sharing laughs and memories. However, there is a separate reality of figuring out how to secretly unbutton your trousers at the table because you’ve had one too many helpings of stuffing, hitting the snooze button on your alarm because it’s just too cold for that morning run, and getting caught in conversation with that one aunt or uncle where all you can do is smile and nod. We have come up with the ultimate survival guide for the Christmas season so that you can enjoy your time while staying happy and healthy!

Food

So many dread the holidays because it is one time where over indulgence is bound to happen. With so many temptations, it is often hard to stay on track but there is no need to fear! It is completely doable you just have to go in with a game plan. One of the biggest traps to avoid are the purely sugar treats. If you are in the mood for a sweet, try having something that has healthy fats and proteins before hand so that your blood sugar doesn’t crash and you are less likely to binge on the biscuits! When it comes to the main dish, always at your veggies first and take your time to enjoy the flavours! Christmas only comes once a year so enjoy it while you can!

Exercise

During the Christmas season, events can last all. Day. Long. Start a new tradition for the family of going for a long walk in the mornings before you get your day started. That way, you can enjoy each other’s company without stress of the turkey burning or the soufflés falling. If you really don’t have any morning people in your family, schedule a walk for after your big meals. Even though it’s so tempting to sit and relax by the fire, your digestion will thank you if you go out for a quick 30-minute stroll after you’ve eaten!

People

With families around the world gathering together, it often brings lengthy conversations that sometimes you just want to get out of! But one of the great things about Christmas is that we get to see family that we don’t often get to see. Rather than a chore, think of this as an opportunity to get to spend quality, enjoyable time with people that you normally wouldn’t visit.

Sleep

Sleep is one of the hardest things to come by during the holidays. Most of us are up early cooking the day’s meals, up late entertaining the guests, and in many cases, both! Make sure that you’re getting enough sleep and if you aren’t getting enough sleep then make sure you’re getting quality sleep. It is best to make a conscious effort to clear your mind before you go to bed. Clear your mind of any stress and only focus your breathing. Another favourite way to de-clutter our minds and relax during the Christmas season is to take a bath before bed. Whatever you find most relaxing, whether it’s a morning run or evening bath make sure you make time for it and for yourself.

PRO TIP: We love adding Neom Bath and shower drops to our bath before we sink in!

words by Nadia Liu