During the holiday season, people tend to over do it in one way or the other. Eating poorly, lots of travel, loss of sleep, lack of exercise due to all of the above. I think this is the main reason for New Year’s resolutions. We have spent 2+ months in this state, so the New Year gives us reason for wanting that new, fresh feeling.
I, myself, will admit to overindulging and under-moving during the holiday season, then making and breaking the resolutions sure to follow. I wanted to share with you some ways that both you and I can prevent the “blah” feeling of the holiday season. The American Chiropractic Association’s 12 Days of Health and Wellness…ways that we can improve and maintain our health Thanksgiving through the New Year.
Day 1. Don’t Over Indulge on Holiday Treats
Eat out sparingly. Brown bag your lunch. Limit alcohol intake. Eat more raw food (fruits and veggies). Select organically grown foods when possible. Consume 25-30 grams of fiber per day (see RAW FOOD). Most importantly, stay hydrated – 8 to 10 eight ounce glasses of water per day, not including coffee, tea, soda, or alcohol. These tips will help to decrease cravings and over loading. You can still have sweets, and grandma’s favorite homemade cookies, but be sure to balance it with healthier choices along the way.
Exercise is a great way to relieve stress, decrease hunger cravings, and improve sleep. Fitting in a brisk walk everyday will help to condition you to hectic shopping trips, strapping the perfect Christmas tree to your roof, and doing fun winter activities with your kids. Regular walking can improve heart health, tone leg muscles, and burn calories! It is also a great way to beat the after dinner food coma, as well as catch up with your sister in law or favorite aunt.
Day 3. Keep Your Feet Pain Free for the Holidays
Selecting the right pair of shoes to wear for your marathon holiday shopping is of utmost importance! Choosing fashion over function is one of the biggest mistakes made when purchasing shoes. Match your shoe to your activity…ie running or walking. Make sure your shoes fit you properly. Have your feet measured every time you go to purchase shoes, as foot size can change over time. The ball of your foot should rest comfortably at the point where the toe end of the shoe bends during walking. Make sure your shoes have plenty of cushioning in the soles. Ballet flats and heeled dress shoes will not give you the support you need for walking on concrete shopping center floors. Shop for shoes at the end of the day, and wear the same type of socks or hosiery you will wear with the shoes. Finally, you should be able to fit an index finger width between the end of the shoe and the longest toe. Pinching of the foot or toes in the toe box indicates incorrect width and potential areas of discomfort. After the shopping has ceased, take time to relieve foot stress with a foot soak, or massage.
Follow the links for full articles from the American Chiropractic Association!
Day 4-6 Tomorrow!
