The holiday season can be magical, but let’s face it, it can also be stressful! From endless to-do lists to festive gatherings, the pressure can leave you feeling overwhelmed. The good news? Simple nutrition and lifestyle tweaks can help you stay calm, energised, and ready to enjoy the season.
Stress-Busting Nutrition Tips
Fuel with Balanced Meals: Include good quality protein, healthy fats and complex carbs in every meal such as those carbohydrates found in fruit, veg, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and whole grain breads. This helps to balance blood sugars, supporting increased energy and reduced stress levels.
🥗 Example: Baked salmon with sweet potato mash and roasted vegetables.
Snack Smart: Avoid sugary treats that cause energy crashes. Instead, go for calming, nutrient-packed snacks like nuts, seeds, crudites dipped in houmous or Greek yogurt with berries.
Magnesium for Relaxation: Low magnesium levels can lead to feeling stressed and our bodies use lots of magnesium during stressful periods, so our levels may become depleted. Magnesium can have a calming effect and support restful sleep and is found in leafy greens, fish, nuts, seeds and whole grains.
Stay Hydrated: Even mild dehydration can result in feeling fatigued. Aim for 6-8 glasses of water daily (herbal teas count too!).
Lifestyle Hacks for Holiday Calm
Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours to recharge. A calming bedtime like herbal tea and a good book, can work wonders.
Breathe and Move: Deep breathing or a short yoga session can instantly lower stress. Even a brisk walk in fresh air can reset your mood.
Plan Ahead: Reduce last-minute chaos by organising your tasks and keeping expectations realistic.
This holiday season, make your wellbeing a priority. A few small changes can help you stay balanced, energised, and truly enjoy the festive moments.
Wishing you a stress-free and joyful festive season! 🎅✨
Comments