Here we are at the end the year 2024 – it’s hard to believe another entire year is ending. I don’t know where the time goes, honestly. I think nothing could be more appropriate at this time of year than to remind you to take good care of yourself. So many of us, being loving, kind, and caring individuals, spend most of our energy on others and we have so little left for ourselves. That’s how we end up not enjoying fully our holiday season, and we might even be more vulnerable to getting sick. Bah humbug to that!

It’s a Balancing Act

There are only 24 hours in each day, so keeping your life in balance, especially during the holiday season, will be challenging. However, it could make the difference as to whether you actually enjoy your time with your loved ones – or not. Here are some tips!

Be Positive: Many people begin their day with gratitude, either by writing in a journal or even just thinking about it. This sets the stage for your day remembering there are good things in your life. You might consider this a mindfulness exercise, and we all know that’s very important, especially during stressful times.

Make sure you are eating more healthy foods than unhealthy ones: That’s basically self- explanatory. I think most of us indulge at this time of year (hey, we’re only human) but make sure that the bulk of what you put into your mouth is healthy, like fresh produce, good quality proteins and fats, etc. It’s part of keeping balance, and your body, mind, and especially your emotions will thank you.

Stay Physically Active: Stress is often well mitigated by some type of exercise, even if it’s just taking enough steps in a day, dancing, or doing exercise routines, etc. My android counts my steps for me; I only need to have it in a pocket or in my purse. Weather permitting, take a nice walk somewhere like a park, because being in nature is a great way to unwind, slow down, and de-stress. Again, it’s a mindfulness
thing, and we need that so much during our hectic holiday seasons.

Be realistic in what and how much you can do: Set your goals with you in mind, as well as everyone else. Don’t be afraid to say no. Painful as it might be, it’s part of you taking care of you…a critically important part.

    Be Kind to Others: By this I am talking about perhaps doing some volunteer work if the opportunity presents itself. Do you have a huge heart for others? As long as you’re balancing this into your schedule, thinking of others helps give you a healthier perspective on your own life. There are many options available; for example, you could spend a little time with older adults, as social isolation and loneliness is a frequent state for many seniors. If you love animals, you could volunteer at an animal shelter. (Pets have feelings, too!) You could serve meals to the homeless, or you could become a mentor to a young person.

    Be Kind to Yourself: Have you ever been on an airplane when they tell you that if the oxygen masks come out, put yours on first, before you help your kids or anyone else. Why? You’ll be of little use to others if you, yourself, are not breathing. Self-care is like that, too. Many of us have others depending on us, so in order to create healthy relationships, self-care needs to come first. I want to remind you that this is not you being selfish, it’s you being able to enjoy your life and be helpful to others.

    Health and Wellness Online would like to wish everyone, no matter how or when they celebrate, a wonderful, happy, healthy holiday season.

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