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!

Jamu Wild Water Brings you Healthier Hydration From the Inside Out

Crush your health goals this Christmas and the following year with Jamu Wild Waters, the thirst quenching soft drinks that will help you reach your wellness potential. Vital at this time of year, especially keeping ourselves healthily hydrated.

What could be better than boosting your health whilst you are also hydrating your body? 

The perfect alternative to traditional sugar-laden fizzy drinks, and overly sweet juices, Jamu Wild Waters are the breath of fresh air you’ve been looking for. A grown up soft drink that will actually do you good!

100% natural, with no added sugars, Jamu Wild Waters will make it easy to hit your health goals with every sip. 

Boasting antioxidants, prebiotic fibre and natural, gut-friendly ingredients, these delicious drinks are also low calorie and contain nothing artificial, so making them your new go-to choice for refreshment.

Jamu Wild Water was born from a love of natural ingredients and a desire to create a product that not only offers healthier hydration, but also harnesses the power of plants to actively nourish. They are available in three delicious, all-natural flavours that support the gut, boost immunity and restore wellbeing in a mouthwatering sparkling water that's bursting with botanicals. 

Sparkling Raspberry combines antioxidant-rich elderberry and soothing mallow root with prebiotic fibre.

Sparkling Blood Orange mixes rosemary extract and immune boosting echinacea with prebiotic fibre. 

Sparkling Lemon boasts vitamin-rich nettle and dandelion extracts with prebiotic fibre.

These tasty gut-friendly drinks support the trillions of friendly microbes within our digestive system and pay tribute to the diverse botanicals that thrive in the UK. Each 250ml serve contains 5g of prebiotic fibre in the form of chicory root inulin, making up 100% of your daily prebiotic requirement. Inulin feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut and allows them to flourish. Jamu Wild Water is also vegan.

Alongside the raft of healthy credentials, Jamu has also partnered with The Outward Bound Trust, to support the mental and physical wellbeing of young people by helping them to connect with the natural world, and find joy outdoors. Every drop of Jamu Wild Water is a celebration of nature and a commitment to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Jamu Wild Water is available in 250ml cans, RRP £2 a can from https://jamuwildwater.co.uk/

How to Stay Healthy and Balanced Over the Festive Period. Ten Top Tips

The festive season is a time of joy, indulgence, and togetherness, but it can also be a whirlwind of overindulgence, stress, and disrupted routines. 

Between the endless mince pies, late-night parties, ("Oh, go on! I'll just have one more!") and packed social calendars, it’s easy to feel a bit out of balance. 

However, with a mindful approach, you can enjoy the festivities while staying healthy and energised. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the season with ease.

1. Prioritise Mindful Eating

Christmas is synonymous with indulgent treats, and there’s no need to miss out. However, striking a balance is key:

Enjoy the Treats You Love: Focus on savouring your favourite festive foods rather than grazing mindlessly.

Eat Regular Meals: Skipping meals to ‘save up’ for a feast can lead to overeating. Instead, maintain a routine of balanced meals.

Portion Control: Use smaller plates at buffets and resist the temptation to pile them high.

Slow Down: Eating slowly helps you enjoy your food and gives your body time to signal when it’s full.

2. Stay Active

It’s easy for exercise to fall by the wayside during the holidays, but staying active can boost your energy and mood.

Festive Walks: Go for a brisk walk after meals, or explore Christmas light displays on foot.

Home Workouts: Try a quick yoga session or a festive-themed workout online to stay active indoors.

Make It Social: Join friends or family for a winter hike, ice skating, or even a friendly snowball fight.

3. Manage Alcohol Consumption

Christmas is often accompanied by mulled wine, prosecco, and festive cocktails. While it’s fine to indulge, moderation can help you feel your best.

Alternate Drinks: Alternate alcoholic beverages with water or soft drinks to stay hydrated.

Pace Yourself: Sip slowly and enjoy your drink rather than rushing through several.

Set Limits: Decide in advance how much you’re comfortable drinking to avoid overindulging.

4. Get Enough Sleep

Late nights and busy schedules can quickly disrupt your sleep routine, leaving you feeling tired and irritable.

Stick to a Schedule: Aim for consistent sleep and wake times, even during the holidays.

Wind Down: Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or having a warm drink, to signal to your body it’s time to sleep.

Watch the Caffeine: Avoid too much caffeine, especially in the evening, to ensure a good night’s rest.

5. Take Time for Yourself

The festive season can be overwhelming, with endless commitments and little time to unwind. Make self-care a priority:

Schedule Downtime: Block out time for activities you enjoy, whether it’s reading, crafting, or a hot bath.

Practise Mindfulness: Use techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling to stay grounded.

Say No When Needed: Don’t feel obligated to attend every event—prioritise what’s most meaningful to you.

6. Stay Hydrated

Amidst the feasting and drinking, it’s easy to forget about water. Staying hydrated is essential for energy, digestion, and overall well-being.

Start the Day Right: Have a glass of water first thing in the morning.

Keep a Bottle Handy: Carry a reusable water bottle to sip throughout the day.

Infuse It: Add slices of lemon, cucumber, or festive fruits like cranberries to make water more appealing.

7. Focus on Mental Health

The festive period isn’t always joyful for everyone, and it’s important to be kind to yourself.

Acknowledge Feelings: It’s okay to feel stressed or overwhelmed. Allow yourself to process those emotions without judgement.

Connect with Loved Ones: Reach out to friends or family if you’re feeling lonely or in need of support.

Take Breaks from Social Media: Comparing your holiday to others’ highlight reels can dampen your spirits. Focus on your own joys.

8. Plan Ahead for Balance

A little planning can go a long way in helping you stay on track.

Healthy Alternatives: Incorporate lighter options into meals, like roasted vegetables or fresh salads.

Prepare Snacks: Keep healthy snacks on hand, like nuts, fruit, or homemade energy bites, to avoid reaching for sugary treats.

Plan Active Outings: Organise activities that keep everyone moving, like a family walk or a charity fun run.

9. Embrace the Spirit of Giving

Sometimes, focusing on others can be the most fulfilling way to feel balanced and joyful.

Volunteer: Dedicate time to helping at a food bank or community event.

Random Acts of Kindness: Spread cheer by writing thoughtful notes or surprising a neighbour with homemade treats.

10. Don’t Aim for Perfection

Remember, the festive period isn’t about sticking rigidly to a plan—it’s about enjoying the season. If you overindulge or miss a workout, don’t dwell on it. Balance is about the bigger picture, not perfection.

Final Thoughts

The festive season is a time to celebrate, but with a little mindfulness and preparation, you can enjoy all it has to offer while staying healthy and balanced. By prioritising self-care, staying active, and making thoughtful choices, you’ll enter the new year feeling energised and ready for what’s ahead.

Here’s to a happy, healthy, and harmonious Christmas!

Healthy Alternatives to Processed Snacks, for Christmas and beyond

In a world filled with convenience foods and processed snacks, it’s all too easy to reach for a bag of crisps or a chocolate bar when hunger strikes. 

However, these options often come loaded with added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients that can take a toll on your health over time. 

Especially at Christmas time when we tend to stock our cupboards with snacks for everyone to enjoy at Christmastime.

The good news? There are plenty of tasty, natural alternatives that can satisfy your cravings without the unwanted extras. Let’s explore some delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make healthy alternatives to processed snacks.

1. Fresh Fruit

Best for: Sweet cravings

Fresh fruit is nature’s candy, providing a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. For an extra burst of flavour and satisfaction, try pairing an apple or a banana with a small handful of nuts. The natural sweetness of fruit can help curb sugar cravings, while the fibre keeps you full. Plus, fruits like berries, oranges, and kiwi are rich in antioxidants, making them a great choice for an immune boost.

2. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus or Guacamole

Best for: Savoury cravings

Vegetable sticks like carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper are crisp, refreshing, and low in calories. Dip them in a serving of hummus or guacamole for a snack that’s rich in healthy fats, protein, and fibre. Hummus and guacamole add creaminess and a boost of flavour, and they're far healthier than typical ranch dips or dressings. This snack is nutrient-dense and a great option for those trying to keep an eye on their waistline.

3. Greek Yoghurt with Berries

Best for: Sweet cravings and a protein boost

Greek yoghurt is high in protein and calcium and contains probiotics that support a healthy gut. To make it more filling and flavourful, add a handful of fresh or frozen berries, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of nuts and seeds. You’ll have a balanced snack that’s high in protein, fibre, and antioxidants, helping to keep your energy up throughout the day.

4. Nuts and Seeds

Best for: Quick, nutrient-dense snacking

Nuts and seeds, like almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds, are packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. They’re perfect for keeping you full between meals and can be easily taken on the go. Be mindful of portion sizes, though, as they’re calorie-dense. A small handful (about 30g) is enough to satisfy your hunger and add a nutrient boost.

5. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter

Best for: Light, satisfying snacking

Rice cakes are low in calories and provide a satisfying crunch, making them a versatile base for various toppings. Spread a thin layer of almond, peanut, or cashew butter on a rice cake for a filling, nutritious snack. To add a bit of sweetness, try adding banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. The combination of healthy fats and protein in the nut butter will help keep you full and energised.

6. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Best for: Protein-rich cravings

Hard-boiled eggs are a fantastic source of protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. They’re easy to prepare in bulk and keep in the fridge for up to a week, making them a convenient option when you’re short on time. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, or smoked paprika for added flavour, and you’ll have a savoury, satisfying snack that’s perfect for any time of day.

7. Cottage Cheese with Fresh Vegetables or Fruit

Best for: Light but filling snacking

Cottage cheese is an underrated snack packed with protein and calcium. For a savoury twist, pair it with sliced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers. If you prefer a sweeter snack, try adding pineapple chunks, apple slices, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Cottage cheese provides a satisfying creamy texture and is low in fat and calories, making it a great alternative to other processed snacks.

8. Dark Chocolate and Nuts

Best for: Healthy indulgence

If you’re craving something indulgent, dark chocolate is a much better choice than milk chocolate or other processed sweets. Look for dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa, as it’s higher in antioxidants and lower in added sugars. Pairing a few squares of dark chocolate with nuts or berries provides a balanced mix of healthy fats, protein, and fibre. It’s a satisfying treat that can actually be good for you in moderation.

9. Popcorn (Homemade)

Best for: Crunchy cravings

Popcorn can be a healthy snack option as long as it’s not drenched in butter, salt, or artificial flavourings. Pop some kernels at home using a small amount of olive or coconut oil, and sprinkle a bit of sea salt or nutritional yeast for extra flavour. Popcorn is low in calories and high in fibre, making it a perfect alternative to crisps or other processed snacks when you want something crunchy.

10. Energy Balls

Best for: Portable, filling snacking

Energy balls are easy to make and can be tailored to your taste preferences. Combine ingredients like oats, dates, nuts, seeds, and a bit of honey or maple syrup. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, and store them in the fridge for a grab-and-go snack. They’re a great option for a quick energy boost and contain a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars.

Making the Shift to Healthier Snacks

Transitioning from processed snacks to healthier alternatives may take a little time and planning, but the benefits are well worth it. Preparing snacks in advance, like chopping veggies or pre-portioning nuts, can make it easier to grab healthy options when you’re hungry. Not only do these choices support better energy levels and improved mood, but they also nourish your body with the essential nutrients it needs.

An interesting Christmas gift idea for good health with Starpowa Premium CBD

Wouldn't you like to be able to give a relative or a friend who is in severe pain the Christmas gift of being free from their pain?

Now you can do this with the invaluable assistance of Starpowa Premium CBD 5mg vegan gummies.

They come in an easy to open and easy to hold jar. An important factor to consider when you realise that many people who are looking to use CBD products often suffer from arthritis or rheumatism which can limit their abilities to open jars, etc.

The recommended dose is two gummies per day. 

The gummies are manufactured in Britain so you know that the quality assurance is good. And unlike some CBD gummies these do not clump together in the bottom of the jar! 

The flavour is green apple and they actually taste absolutely delicious, more like a gummie sweet than something designed to make your life better. So please do keep these out of the reach of children as they'll quite naturally mistake these for some sweeties. They are also free of sugar.

What do they do? In general CBD gummies can improve anxiety and symptoms of depression, improve   Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) symptoms and reduced levels of chronic pain, so are ideal for people with rheumatism, arthritis or allied conditions.

So, if you want to give someone you love the gift of being pain free this Christmas visit https://starpowa.com and check out their entire range of products all designed to help people become or stay healthy.

The That's Christmas Guide to Eating Well, Feeling Good, and Living Better This Christmas

The festive season is fast approaching, and with it comes the promise of delicious feasts, joyous celebrations, and, let’s be honest, a little bit of indulgence. 

While Christmas is a time for merrymaking, it’s also an opportunity to focus on our well-being, both physical and mental. 

This year, why not gift yourself and your loved ones a guide to eating well, feeling good, and living better?

The Art of Eating Well

Christmas is synonymous with food, from the traditional roast dinner to the endless selection of sweets and treats. However, eating well doesn’t mean you have to forgo the delights of the season. It’s about balance, quality, and mindfulness.

Embrace Whole Foods: Incorporate more whole foods into your festive meals. Fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins not only nourish your body but also add vibrant flavours to your table. Consider roasted Brussels sprouts with chestnuts, quinoa-stuffed peppers, or a hearty lentil stew as part of your Christmas spread.

Portion Control with Pleasure: Enjoy your favourite festive foods, but be mindful of portion sizes. Smaller servings allow you to savour each bite without overindulging. Remember, you can always go back for seconds if you’re still hungry!

Smart Snacking: Christmas is often filled with grazing and snacking. Opt for healthier choices like nuts, fruit, or dark chocolate. These options satisfy your cravings and provide essential nutrients, keeping your energy levels stable throughout the day.

Stay Hydrated: With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when indulging in rich foods and festive drinks. Start your day with a glass of water, and keep a bottle close by to sip throughout the celebrations.

Feeling Good Inside and Out

Christmas can be a whirlwind of activities, and it’s important to take care of your mental and physical health amidst the hustle and bustle.

Mindful Eating: Slow down and truly enjoy your meals. Take the time to appreciate the flavours, textures, and aromas of your food. Mindful eating not only enhances your dining experience but also aids digestion and helps you tune in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.

Keep Moving: Incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine, even during the festive season. A brisk walk, a dance session in the living room, or a quick yoga flow can do wonders for your mood and overall well-being. Exercise helps counteract the effects of indulgent meals and keeps your energy levels up.

Prioritise Rest: With parties, shopping, and socialising, it’s easy to skimp on sleep. However, getting enough rest is essential for maintaining your health and well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, and don’t be afraid to take a nap if you need it.

Practice Gratitude: Christmas is a time for reflection and gratitude. Take a moment each day to acknowledge the things you’re thankful for. Practising gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, enhance relationships, and boost overall happiness.

Living Better Through the Festive Season

Living better this Christmas is about finding joy in simplicity, being present in the moment, and creating meaningful connections with loved ones.

Simplify Your Celebrations: This year, consider scaling back on the excess and focusing on what truly matters. Whether it’s opting for homemade gifts, choosing fewer but more meaningful presents, or simplifying your Christmas dinner menu, a more mindful approach can reduce stress and enhance your enjoyment.

Quality Time Over Quantity: Christmas is about spending time with loved ones. Instead of trying to fit in as many events as possible, focus on creating quality moments with the people who matter most. A cosy night in with family, a leisurely walk with a friend, or a heartfelt conversation can leave lasting memories.

Give Back: There’s no better way to live better than by giving back to others. Whether it’s donating to a charity, volunteering your time, or simply offering a kind gesture to someone in need, acts of kindness enrich your own life and spread the true spirit of Christmas.

Set Intentions for the New Year: As the year comes to a close, take some time to reflect on the past twelve months and set positive intentions for the year ahead. Whether it’s adopting healthier habits, pursuing a new passion, or deepening your relationships, setting intentions can help you start the new year on a positive note.

This Christmas, let’s make a conscious effort to eat well, feel good, and live better. By embracing balance, mindfulness, and simplicity, we can enjoy all the delights of the season while nurturing our bodies, minds, and spirits. So, as you deck the halls and prepare for the festivities, remember that the best gift you can give yourself and others is the gift of well-being. Merry Christmas!

PrePear to Party, Dodge the Hangover?

With the festive party season about to go into full swing, do you want to have a good time but dread the after-effects of drinking alcohol and the gloomy prospect of feeling below par the next day? 

With a little help from PrePear, a special drink made from Korean pear which is billed as the next best thing to a hangover cure, those with busy lifestyles can still enjoy the Christmas and New Year celebrations without the all too familiar morning-after-the-night before vibes.

Whilst PrePear does not advocate excessive drinking, the new British brand acknowledges that there are many of us who enjoy a few drinks on an occasion as part of a balanced lifestyle. 

So whilst mindful drinking might be in, for those who still enjoy a responsible approach to alcohol, waking up out of sorts is certainly out of the question! 

For centuries, Korean pear has been associated with preventing a hangover, thanks to the naturally occurring enzymes and bioactive compounds found in the juice which play a role in the speedy breakdown of alcohol and its toxic by-products.  

According to research, drinking PrePear ahead of your first alcoholic drink results in milder and sometimes even zero hangover symptoms. And PrePear is not just any old Korean pear juice, the brand uses a special extraction technique to enhance the effectiveness of all those superfood qualities.

PrePear for a health boost in 2024 …

While PrePear can play a role in dodging the hangover, this punchy pouch drink made from Korean pear is also a great choice for anyone looking to up the ante in pursuit of a healthier lifestyle in 2024. 

PrePear not only tastes delicious, it is naturally rich in antioxidants (which play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases), is a source of fibre and anti-inflammatory compounds (help lower the risk of certain chronic or long-lasting diseases including heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and some cancers). And with no added sugar and at just 49 calories per convenient 120ml pouch, it won't be detrimental to any efforts to adopt a more balanced diet either!

Nutritionist Raoul-Edward Rechnitz who runs the platform Picture of Health Nutrition says, “In a world looking for health hacks, perhaps it's useful to look to other cultures and their practices. Koreans have been drinking Korean Pear juice for generations to reduce the effects of alcohol and the resulting hangover. Naturally containing enzymes ALDH and ADH, which metabolise alcohol and the harmful chemicals alcohol is broken down into, PrePear can help ensure that if you are going to drink, the negative effects on your body should be reduced. 

Korean Pears are also high in fibre and antioxidants, and with no added chemicals at all, PrePear can seamlessly slot into your healthy lifestyle routine.” 

PrePear is available online at www.prepearjuice.com in packs of six (£18) 12 (£32) and 24 (£56.50). For those living in London, PrePear is also available via the Quiver delivery service.

Christmas & New Year delivery dates:

UK DELIVERY

Wednesday 20th for tracked 24hr delivery for Christmas

Wednesday 27th for tracked 24hr delivery New Year's Eve

CENTRAL LONDON

Anytime for Christmas or New Year's Eve! 6am and midnight, 7 days a week, 364 days a year. But do note it's not available for delivery on Christmas Day.