How to Stay Fit, Healthy, and Well Over Christmas

The festive season is a time for celebration, indulgence, and togetherness. 

However, between the mince pies, late-night parties, and endless commitments, it can be easy to let fitness and well-being take a backseat. 

The good news? You don’t have to choose between enjoying the festivities and staying healthy. 

With a little planning and mindfulness, you can make the most of the season without compromising your health or fitness goals.

Here’s how to stay fit, healthy, and well over Christmas.

1. Stay Active, Festively

Exercise might not feel like a priority when there’s so much going on, but staying active can boost your energy levels and help you manage the indulgences.

Make It Social: Plan a family walk after Christmas dinner, go ice skating, or organise a friendly game of football.

Try Festive Workouts: Join a Christmas-themed workout class or follow a short, festive workout video at home.

Sneak It In: If time is tight, do 10-15 minutes of bodyweight exercises in the morning to kickstart your day.

2. Balance Indulgence with Mindfulness

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without delicious treats, but mindful choices can help you feel your best.

Savour Treats: Enjoy festive foods in moderation. Focus on quality over quantity and truly savour each bite.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re indulging in alcohol or salty snacks.

Fill Your Plate Wisely: At meals, load up on vegetables and lean proteins before reaching for heavier dishes.

3. Don’t Skip Meals

Skipping meals to “save up” for a big Christmas feast might sound logical, but it often leads to overeating later.

Eat Regularly: Stick to a routine of healthy meals and snacks to maintain energy and prevent overindulgence.

Healthy Breakfasts: Start your day with a nutritious breakfast, like porridge with festive spices or a smoothie packed with greens and berries.

4. Get Enough Sleep

With late-night gatherings and early starts, sleep often takes a hit during Christmas. However, rest is essential for maintaining energy and well-being.

Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours per night, even during the holidays.

Wind Down: Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or enjoying a cup of herbal tea.

Nap Wisely: If late nights leave you tired, a short nap (20-30 minutes) can help you recharge.

5. Manage Stress Levels

The festive season can be stressful, with endless to-do lists and high expectations. Taking time to relax is crucial.

Practise Mindfulness: Use techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to stay calm and present.

Delegate Tasks: Don’t try to do everything yourself. Ask family members to help with cooking, decorating, or wrapping gifts.

Say No When Needed: It’s okay to decline invitations or simplify plans if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

6. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is often overlooked amidst festive drinks and busy schedules, but it’s vital for energy and well-being.

Drink Water First: Start your day with a glass of water and keep a bottle handy throughout the day.

Limit Sugary Drinks: Choose water, herbal teas, or sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice as festive alternatives.

Alcohol Moderation: Alternate alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated and avoid overindulgence.

7. Keep Your Immune System Strong

With cold weather and busy schedules, it’s easy to feel run down during the holidays.

Eat a Rainbow: Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals to get essential vitamins and minerals.

Take Time to Rest: Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

Wash Your Hands: Prevent seasonal illnesses by practising good hygiene, especially when out and about.

8. Embrace the Outdoors

Fresh air and natural light can do wonders for your mood and energy levels.

Winter Walks: Explore local parks, nature trails, or Christmas light displays.

Morning Sunlight: Step outside in the morning to boost your vitamin D levels and set your circadian rhythm.

Cold Weather Benefits: Embrace the invigorating chill—it’s a great excuse to layer up in cosy knits and scarves!

9. Stay Connected

Well-being isn’t just about physical health; emotional health matters too.

Spend Time with Loved Ones: Make meaningful connections with family and friends.

Reach Out: If someone seems lonely or stressed, a kind word or thoughtful gesture can make a big difference.

Set Boundaries: Balance social commitments with quiet time to recharge.

10. Reflect and Set Intentions

As the year comes to a close, Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on your achievements and set intentions for the future.

Gratitude Practice: Reflect on what you’re grateful for and share it with your loved ones.

Plan for Wellness: Think about how you can carry healthy habits into the new year.

Celebrate Your Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your personal successes from the past year.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health and well-being. By staying active, making mindful choices, and prioritising self-care, you can enjoy a balanced and happy festive season.

Here’s to a fit, healthy, and wonderfully festive Christmas!

Dealing with Fussy or Picky Eaters at Christmas: A Guide to Keeping the Festivities Merry

Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and, of course, food! 

The festive table is often brimming with delicious treats, from turkey to mince pies. However, for many hosts, there’s one challenge that can dampen the holiday cheer: accommodating fussy or picky eaters. 

Whether it's a family member who only eats plain food or a guest with a long list of dislikes, dealing with picky eaters at Christmas doesn't have to be stressful. Here’s how you can make your holiday meal enjoyable for everyone, without losing your festive spirit.

1. Plan Ahead with a Menu Consultation

Before the big day, reach out to your guests and discreetly ask if they have any specific food preferences, dislikes, or dietary requirements. This shows you're considerate and gives you a chance to adjust your menu. For picky eaters, it’s not always about allergies or intolerances—it might be certain textures or flavours they can’t handle. Knowing this in advance allows you to avoid potential pitfalls and ensure everyone has something they’ll enjoy.

2. Offer a Variety of Dishes

Christmas dinner traditionally centres around a grand roast, but offering a wider variety of side dishes can make a huge difference for picky eaters. Make sure you have options that are simple and unseasoned, as well as more flavourful dishes for those with adventurous palates. For instance, a plain vegetable medley or mashed potatoes without seasoning can be a safe choice. A variety of sauces or condiments on the side will allow guests to customise their meals to their liking.

3. Go for Build-Your-Own Options

Consider serving part of the meal buffet-style or allowing guests to build their own plates. This way, they can pick and choose what they like without any awkwardness. This works particularly well with starters or desserts. For example, you could offer a dessert station with different toppings, or a range of salads and cold meats, allowing everyone to find something that suits their preferences.

4. Have a Picky-Eater-Friendly Alternative

While you may not want to abandon your traditional roast turkey, having a small, simple alternative for fussy eaters can be a lifesaver. A plain chicken breast or a simple pasta dish could serve as a non-intrusive backup. It doesn’t need to steal the spotlight from the main meal but can ensure everyone has something they’ll enjoy.

5. Encourage Contribution

If your guest is particularly fussy, why not encourage them to contribute a dish? This way, they know they’ll have at least one option they love, and it takes the pressure off you to cater to every single preference. Many people, particularly those with specific dietary needs, are more than happy to bring something along.

6. Be Subtle and Respectful

The key to handling picky eaters is to be subtle. You don’t want anyone feeling singled out or embarrassed by their eating habits. Avoid drawing attention to their preferences or making a fuss. Instead, quietly ensure there’s something they’ll enjoy and let them navigate the meal without any pressure. Christmas is about togetherness, and food should bring joy, not anxiety.

7. Focus on the Experience, Not Just the Food

While food is an important part of Christmas, it’s not the only thing that matters. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by catering for picky eaters, remember that the most important thing is the company and the festive spirit. A great atmosphere, thoughtful conversation, and a relaxed host will always make the day memorable, even if everyone’s plates look a little different.

8. Stay Relaxed and Enjoy Yourself

Hosting Christmas can be stressful, especially when catering to a variety of tastes. But try not to let it ruin your festive mood. Remember that you can’t please everyone 100% of the time, and that’s perfectly fine. As long as you’ve made an effort to consider your guests’ preferences, you’re doing a great job. After all, the holiday season is about spending time with loved ones, not perfecting a Michelin-starred menu.

Dealing with fussy or picky eaters at Christmas doesn’t have to be daunting. With a little planning, flexibility, and creativity, you can make sure everyone at the table feels comfortable and satisfied. 

By offering variety, being respectful of preferences, and keeping the focus on the festive experience, you’ll ensure a merry and stress-free Christmas for all. Happy Christmas eating!