Surviving the Silly Season with a Splash of Fun!

Naturopath Kirsty Lakstins-Adams has pulled together her best tips to managing the Christmas season.

EXERCISE

Keep the holiday season vibes alive by spicing up your exercise routine. Don't let being on holidays be an excuse to skip it—make it a family affair with activities that include the kids. Swap the gym for a refreshing pool workout!

CHRISTMAS TABLE

Give your festive table a healthy makeover by removing candy bowls and chocolates. Pay attention to the drinks menu—consider swapping out sugary sodas for more nutritious options. Opt for tasty, low-fat chips, whole-grain crackers, and loads of veggies to balance out the feast. Don't forget to watch those alcoholic drink calories—alternate with water or soda.

Spruce up your table with water infused with cucumber, watermelon bits, or slices of orange and lemon. Skip the unnecessary bread and amp up the salad selection. It's all about adding color and flavour without the extra calories.

PORTION SIZES

Downsize with style! Lay out smaller plates to help everyone enjoy the feast without overindulging. Once the feast is over, pack away the leftovers promptly to avoid mindless snacking.

HEALTHY DESSERTS

Dessert time just got a makeover! Explore healthier alternatives without sacrificing flavour. Indulge in one sweet treat and complement it with low-fat and low-sugar dessert options. Consider smaller portions of puddings and pies, adding a dollop of yogurt or low-fat, low-sugar custard. For the little ones, whip up some homemade icy poles!

STRESS

Why stress about decking the halls? It's just one day, so tackle what you can handle physically and mentally. Ease the tension by embracing flower essences and calming essential oils through scented candles. Money worries? Explore Secret Santa for larger families, and don't hesitate to delegate tasks and ask for help.

SLEEP

Catch those Zs for a stress-free holiday! Wind down with herbal teas like chamomile, passionflower, or liquorice. Adequate sleep not only keeps stress at bay but also helps in maintaining a healthy weight and curbing those sugar cravings. Remember, a good night's sleep is the secret ingredient to a cheerful holiday season!

We hope you can implement some of these simple tips to enjoy your Christmas time without the stress!