Finding Balance and Wellness During the Holiday Season

As the holidays draw near, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything on our plates—figuratively and literally. Between festive meals, packed schedules, and the pressure to make everything perfect, we often put ourselves last. This season, let’s focus on a little bit of everything: self-care, gratitude, mindfulness, and balance. Here are tips, insights, and fun ideas to help you stay well while enjoying the magic of the holidays.

Self-Care is Not Selfish

With so much to do for others during the holidays, self-care can feel like an afterthought—or worse, like selfishness. But remember: taking care of yourself is essential. When you prioritize your own mental, emotional, and physical health, you show up better for the people you love.

Quick self-care ideas for busy days:

• Start your morning with five deep breaths or a moment of gratitude.

• Sip a cup of herbal tea in peace.

• Take a 10-minute walk, preferably with a furry companion like my dog, Blondie.

• Keep your meals simple yet nourishing, like a cozy fall-inspired soup or casserole.

Inspiration:

“You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritize yourself so you can serve others more fully.”

Gratitude Changes Everything

Gratitude isn’t just a warm fuzzy feeling—it’s a tool to rewire your brain. The holidays are the perfect time to embrace a practice like the Three Good Things method:

1. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for, big or small.

2. Reflect on why they matter.

3. Notice how this shifts your mindset over time.

Being thankful for where you are right now—even if you’re not exactly where you want to be—can bring peace to the journey. For example, instead of focusing on health goals you haven’t met yet, celebrate everything your body does for you daily: breathing, moving, digesting, and simply existing.

Mindful Eating Without Guilt

Diet culture often complicates the joy of holiday meals. It’s easy to fall into the trap of labeling foods as “good” or “bad” or feeling guilty about indulging. Instead, let’s reframe the way we approach holiday meals.

Mindful Eating Tips:

• Start with balance: Enjoy proteins, veggies, and whole grains, but don’t skip your favorites.

• Eat without distractions: Savor every bite.

• Release the guilt: One meal—or even a few days—doesn’t define your health journey.

Fun Fact: Did you know cinnamon can enhance the flavor of your favorite holiday dishes while also supporting blood sugar balance? Sprinkle it on roasted sweet potatoes, oatmeal, or even your morning coffee for a cozy seasonal twist.

Protecting Your Mental Health During the Holidays

The pressure to meet expectations—both external and internal—can take a toll on your mental health. This is why self-compassion is key. If you slip up on a habit or feel like you’ve “overindulged,” don’t spiral into an all-or-nothing mindset. Remember, healthy habits are for life, not just the holiday season.

Quick Mental Health Tips:

• Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no to that 12th holiday party.

• Stay active in ways you love: Walks, dancing, or playing with the kids all count.

• Keep a gratitude journal: Start and end your day with thankfulness.

Inspiration:

“Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence.”

Bringing It All Together

The holidays can be a beautiful blend of joy, connection, and delicious food—if we allow ourselves to experience them fully. Whether it’s practicing self-care, staying thankful, or embracing mindfulness, the key is finding balance.

As you navigate this holiday season, remember: wellness isn’t about strict rules or guilt; it’s about creating habits that support your body, mind, and soul for a lifetime.

Challenge for the Week:

Start each day with the Three Good Things method. Let gratitude guide your mindset through the hustle and bustle of the season. And when it’s time to sit down for a holiday meal, savor it with joy and without guilt.

Want more tips and inspiration? Join my Be Well with Alana community for group coaching or 1:1 Zoom sessions. Let’s navigate this season—and every season—together.