Festive season wellness tips for a fresh start to the new year

Christmas is just around the corner. And among all your social plans and celebrations, you might be wondering how you’ll indulge in all the wonderful things this time of year brings, while still taking care of yourself. 

This year, your focus should be on finding balance, rather than policing every aspect of your holidays. In this article, you’ll hear from Women’s Health Naturopath Bianca Wise with some practical wellness tips for prioritising yourself. Discover how to enter the new year feeling better than ever, without missing out on any of that holiday joy.

Prep your stomach

Your calendar is packed with festive gatherings and events, so eating mindfully is a must. Whether you’re planning on having a drink or just have a long night of socialising ahead, your body needs enough fuel.

“I suggest lining your stomach with a balanced meal that includes 30g of protein and some healthy fats,” Bianca says. “Try to minimise refined carbohydrates and sugars, as they won’t give you any of that lasting energy you need.”

Level up your water intake

Planning to have a festive drink? Get even more out of your water intake. Aim for two to three litres of water a day, especially around the silly season. Bianca recommends adding a squeeze of lemon juice and some Celtic or pink lake salt to your water. “Instead of constantly flushing out by drinking plain water, adding these can hydrate even more effectively,” she says. “Additionally, you can add some electrolytes to your water before drinking to help maintain your fluid balance more effectively.”

 

Boost your body

Wondering how to stay healthy during Christmas when you’re indulging more than usual? While it’s certainly harder to stick to a routine, you can still support your body without overthinking it—thanks to some simple herbs, vitamins, and minerals.

“To replenish your body and combat an increase in alcohol intake, add magnesium, activated B vitamins, and liver-friendly herbs and plants such as ginseng extract and St. Mary’s thistle to your daily regimen,” Bianca says. “But always speak with your practitioner to ensure you’re having the right dose and type.”

Sip smarter for less sugar

You don’t need to go without a drink during the silly season in the name of health and wellness. According to Bianca, there’s a smarter (and tastier) way to do it. “Choose alcoholic drinks that you can mix with sparkling or mineral waters,” she says. “You’ll avoid extra added sugars, and it’ll help dilute your drinks so you slow down your consumption, too.” Otherwise, skip the alcohol completely and sip on some delicious non-alcoholic options like NON, TINA, and plus & minus.

Ditch the guilt this silly season

As with anything in life, moderation is key. Christmas is all about filling your cup with good times with friends and family, sharing delicious meals, and refreshing yourself for the new year. “Refrain from telling yourself that you have to work out to burn off your Christmas feast,” Bianca says. “Movement is to be enjoyed, not used as a punishment.”

Enter the new year as your happiest self

The holidays are the perfect time to unwind and spend time with friends and family. And when you focus on true wellness, rather than control, you’ll benefit even more from the break.

Take this time to set your intentions for the new year. Discover how to prioritise your health and wellness with expert advice from The Wellness Edit