Chiro Clinic ~ Healthy Hints For The Holidays

Can you believe that the holidays are almost here? With the winter solstice arriving, we can finally turn our thoughts to longer daylight hours, holiday celebrations with family and friends and some much needed rest. With so much celebrating ahead, how can one maintain a healthy lifestyle over the holidays? Here are a few simple tips to stay happy and healthy over the Christmas and New Year's break:
1. Stay in your exercise routine during the holidays. Whether it is a short 20 minute run with bells on your shoes or an early morning yoga class, it all counts! At this time of year, exercise seems to be the first routine to get dropped amongst the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Try to stick with your exercise routine over the holidays and you will be amazed at how much better you feel. There is now plenty of scientific evidence supporting the benefits of regular exercise, including the fact that people who exercise regularly also receive regular “cues” from their body to eat a more healthy diet.
2. Be conscious of your consumption. For whatever the reason, we all tend to lose our common sense at this time of year and suddenly fall into the trap of believing that holiday treats are calorie-free! While there is no need to deny yourself some of Grandma's special shortbread or a glass of dressed up eggnog, just remember to pace yourself!! Before allowing all of those extra calories to add up to a new layer of winter fat, try to continue a healthy eating regime with the odd treat here and there. Opt for the fresh veggies and humus at parties, the lower calorie alcoholic drinks and fill up on the good food first. Healthy eating over the holidays will leave you feeling happy and refreshed, as opposed to sluggish and overweight. Be sure to stick to your regular vitamin and supplement regimes, including your intake of Vitamin D3 at this time of year.
3. Get some fresh air. We all tend to hibernate a little too much at this time of year, so break the trend and get outside! Dress for the weather and try something new, like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog-sledding, etc. The holidays are a great time to share in new activities with friends and family.
4. Get plenty of rest. Despite the parties and the late nights wrapping gifts, try to stay on track with your sleep. Most of us need a minimum of 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, with more required if our bodies are stressed. The occasional mid-morning cat nap can also prove exceptionally refreshing if you are feeling somewhat overwhelmed.
With just a little bit of effort and a pinch of common sense, this year's holidays can be the healthiest ever!
~ Dr. Natalie Carrington

We wish everyone a very happy and healthy holiday season!
~ Drs. Greg, Natalie, and Mike at the Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic


Dr. Greg Morris, Dr. Natalie Carrington and Dr. Mike Belding can all be contacted at the Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic, 403-933-3088.