Reframing the Holiday Season
Introduction
With Halloween just around the corner, the holiday season is officially upon us. This time of year can stir up a wide range of emotions—anticipation, anxiety, excitement, hesitation, exhaustion, relaxation, and stress. From gift shopping and family gatherings to endless parties and obligations, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Many of my clients experience a spike in stress levels during the holidays as they juggle societal expectations alongside their own personal pressures.
But what if we changed our mindset this season? Instead of stressing out about the holidays, why not reframe your approach and take back control to include both health and holiday cheer? Below, I’ve outlined a few strategies to help you approach the holidays mindfully and intentionally. Take a moment to reflect, adapt them to your life, and embrace a more balanced holiday season.
Set Clear Intentions for the Season
Setting clear intentions gives you a guiding “north star” to navigate the holidays. This is a deeply personal exercise, so take the time to reflect on what matters most to you. Consider asking yourself the following questions:
How do I want to show up this season?
What are my priorities, and why are they important to me?
How do I want to feel as I step into the new year?
What habits or routines do I want to maintain, and how will I ensure I stick to them?
For example, my personal intention this season is to slow down and find a balance between enjoying quality time with loved ones and prioritizing my mental and physical health. Every decision I make will be aligned with these intentions, ensuring that I feel centered and in control, rather than swept away by holiday demands.
Embrace Balance and Grace
Maintaining balance can be challenging on a regular day, let alone during the holidays. But there’s no better time to practice! The key is understanding that there will be moments when you have full control and moments when you don’t.
On the days when you do have control—perhaps Sunday through Thursday—commit to your health goals and routines. When life gets busy with events, social gatherings, or holiday obligations, allow yourself to enjoy the moment and give yourself grace. Remember, one indulgence or skipped workout doesn't define you. Be kind to yourself, and know that you can always return to your habits.
Let Go of Perfectionism
Closely tied to balance and grace is the need to let go of perfectionism. The holidays might require some flexibility in your diet, workout routines, or daily structure—and that’s okay! Try adjusting your expectations and allowing for more wiggle room. You don’t have to abandon your health goals altogether, but a more flexible approach can relieve some of the pressure and help you enjoy the season with less stress. Figure out what your non-negotiables are and what you can be flexible with.
Remember: The Holidays Will Come Again
If you’re deep in your health or healing journey and feel anxious about the holiday temptations, remember that the holidays come around every year. It’s okay if this year looks a little different than usual. Find ways to enjoy the festivities while staying true to your goals—whether that’s trying new recipes, enjoying non-alcoholic drinks, or incorporating movement into your day. Keep in mind that the most important part of the holidays is spending quality time with yourself and your loved ones.
Focus on the Foundations
You’ve worked hard all year to build a strong foundation of health, and now is the time to lean on it. When holiday schedules get busy, or when indulgent foods seem unavoidable, focusing on the basics can help keep you grounded and prevent you from feeling like you’ve completely derailed your progress. Here are some foundational habits to prioritize:
Prioritize Sleep: The holidays can be draining, and late nights or early mornings might disrupt your routine. Make it a priority to get at least 8-9 hours of sleep, whenever possible! Quality sleep will keep your immune system strong, your mood balanced, and your energy levels up.
Stay Hydrated: With festive cocktails and sugary treats all around, hydration can often fall by the wayside. Drinking plenty of water can help curb cravings, aid digestion, and keep you feeling refreshed. A good tip is to alternate drinks with water or carry a reusable water bottle as a reminder to hydrate throughout the day.
Move Daily: You don’t need to follow a strict workout routine, but try to incorporate some movement each day—whether it’s a walk, a gentle yoga session, or a quick morning stretch. Better yet, invite a loved one to join you, combining movement with quality time together! Staying active not only lifts your mood and reduces stress, but also helps you stay aligned with your health goals, even if it’s just a few minutes at a time.
Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods: It’s easy to get caught up in holiday treats, but try to maintain a focus on whole, fresh foods whenever possible. Prioritizing protein, vegetables, and healthy fats will keep your energy steady and help you feel satisfied. If you know a big meal or party is coming up, balance your day by having some nutrient-dense meals beforehand.
Take Time for Yourself: Even five minutes of quiet time in the morning can make a big difference in how you handle the day. Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or simply enjoying a cup of tea in peace, giving yourself a moment to breathe will help you stay calm and centered.
Remember, you may not have time for every wellness routine you’re used to, but by falling back on these foundational habits, you can maintain your health and well-being through the holiday season. Consistency, even in small ways, will go a long way in keeping you on track.
Real-Life Success Stories
Two of my clients approached the holiday season very differently, yet both found success by reframing their mindset.
Client A was working toward being alcohol-free but worried about the pressure of Christmas and New Year’s. Initially, she planned to have one or two glasses of wine on each holiday. But after our discussion, she decided to let go of rigid expectations and embrace the moment. When Christmas arrived, she felt no pressure to drink and chose to stay alcohol-free. She said, “It wasn’t a decision I mulled over for days. I just let my body and feelings guide me—and I felt great!”
Client B had struggled with binge eating, particularly on the weekends. If she indulged in a treat, she would often write off the entire day as a loss and continue overeating. Through reframing her approach, she learned not to let one treat derail her progress. Now, she relies on her healthy habits and foundations, allowing herself grace and avoiding perfectionism. This mindset will serve her well through the holiday season.
Conclusion: Choose Your Path to Wellness This Holiday Season
The holidays don’t have to be a time of stress and anxiety. By setting clear intentions, embracing balance, letting go of perfectionism, and focusing on your health foundations, you can navigate this season with grace and confidence. Remember, the holidays will come again, so this year, focus on what feels right for you and enjoy the journey.
With support,
Isabella
