Tips for Prioritizing Yourself this Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. But amidst the hustle and bustle, it's easy to lose sight of one important person - YOU! This year, let's flip the script. Let's prioritize self-care and wellness, without compromising on the festive cheer. After all, aren't the holidays about feeling good?

At CORE57, we believe in a holistic approach to wellness, one that encompasses our 7 Foundations of Fitness — hydration, fuel, movement, heart rate training, active recovery, life balance, and community. Here are some simple tips using some of our Fitness Foundations as a guide to help you stay on track with your wellness goals this holiday season.

Hydration

This holiday season, make hydration a priority. Our bodies are made up of around 60% water, and dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, decreased cognitive function, and even weakened immunity – something we definitely want to avoid during this busy time of year. 

Sip before you eat: Often, our bodies misinterpret thirst as hunger. So, try drinking a glass of water before your meal. It not only helps control overeating but also aids digestion.

Start and end your day with water: Start your day with a glass of water to kickstart your hydration and end your day with a glass of water to help your body recover and prepare for the next day.

Eat water-rich foods: Eating foods high in water content can also contribute to your hydration. Opt for fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, watermelons, oranges, and strawberries.

Limit sugary drinks: Holiday cocktails and sugary beverages can add a significant amount of calories. Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or a glass of wine instead. And remember, if you're indulging in a little holiday cheer with alcoholic beverages, balance each drink with a glass of water.

Staying hydrated is not just about drinking water. It's about maintaining a balance in the body. So, this holiday season, raise a glass (of water!) to your health.

Fuel

The holidays aren't just about delicious food, but there's definitely plenty to go around. Enjoy it, but remember to fuel your body with the right nutrients too. Prioritize a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. And when you indulge, savor every bite. Eating slowly and mindfully can prevent overeating and keep you satisfied longer.

Don't skip meals: Skipping meals in anticipation of a big holiday feast can lead to overeating. Instead, eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day to maintain your blood sugar levels and keep your hunger in check.

Portion control: It's easy to fill up your plate when faced with a buffet of delicious holiday foods. Practice portion control by starting small and taking more only if you're truly still hungry.

Focus on protein: When serving yourself, start by filling your plate with lean protein, which is more filling and can prevent overeating.

The holidays are a time to enjoy and treat yourself. Balance indulgence with mindful choices to nourish your body and maintain your wellness.

Movement

Long shopping queues, holiday cooking, or even lounging by the fire - it's easy to become sedentary during the holidays. Incorporate movement into your day-to-day activities. Dance while you cook, take a brisk walk after dinner, or join a CORE57 Semi-Private session. Remember, every bit of movement counts!

Incorporate Exercise into Family Time: Turn family gatherings into opportunities for physical activity. Consider a family walk, a dance-off or a friendly game of football. This not only keeps everyone active, but also makes for a fun and memorable holiday experience.

Schedule Your Workouts: With a busy holiday schedule, it's easy to let your workouts take a backseat. But don't forget to prioritize them just like any other important event. Plan your workouts, like CORE57's group classes or Semi-Private sessions, in advance and stick to it.

Don't Forget about Stretching: Amidst all the physical activity, remember to stretch. It helps in improving flexibility, reducing muscle tension, and promoting circulation.

The key is to stay active and enjoy the holiday season without compromising your wellness goals.

Active Recovery

Active recovery is as important as movement. Make time for activities that help your body recover and heal. This could be a relaxing yoga session, a massage, or simply a good night's sleep. Listen to your body and give it the rest it deserves.

Meditate: Meditation has numerous health benefits, including stress reduction, improved focus, and better sleep. Set aside a few minutes each day during the holiday season to clear your mind and meditate.

Try Deep Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing promotes full oxygen exchange. It slows the heartbeat and can lower or stabilize blood pressure, making it an excellent tool for relaxation.

Use a Foam Roller: Foam rolling, also known as self-myofascial release, can help to relieve muscle tension and soothe sore spots. It's a simple and cost-effective technique for your active recovery days.

Incorporate a CORE57 Active Recovery Class: CORE57 offers specialized active recovery classes designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. These classes use methods like targeted stretching, mobility exercises, and yoga to enhance recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and increase flexibility.

Active recovery is about balancing activity with restorative practices. This holiday season, take the time to recharge and rejuvenate your body, and enter the new year feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Life Balance

Find your balance! The holidays can be hectic — don't forget to carve out 'me time' amidst the chaos. Read a book, meditate, or do anything that brings you joy and peace. Maintaining a healthy life balance is crucial for overall wellness.

Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: During the holiday chaos, don't compromise on your sleep. A regular sleep schedule keeps your mind and body in optimal condition. Remember, sufficient rest is as crucial as a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Practice Gratitude: It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you're grateful for. This practice can improve your mood and bring a sense of peace.

Set Boundaries: During this festive period, it's okay to say no to activities that drain your energy. Set boundaries and prioritize activities that are most important to you, allowing you to enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed.

Maintaining life balance is about knowing your limits and ensuring you're taking care of yourself in the midst of all the holiday activities. It's the key to truly enjoying the holiday season.

Community

The holiday season is all about community. Spend quality time with loved ones, participate in local events, or join the CORE57 community for some fun group activities.

Stay Connected: Holidays are a wonderful time to reconnect with loved ones. This sense of connectedness can positively impact mental wellbeing. Whether it's a phone call, a text, or a shared meal, make an effort to connect with those you care about.

Volunteer: The holiday season is a perfect time to give back to your community. Consider volunteering at a local soup kitchen, organizing a toy drive, or participating in charity events. It's a meaningful way to connect with others and spread joy during the festive season.

Join the CORE57 Family: A well-rounded fitness plan goes beyond the individual. It's about fostering a supportive, health-conscious community. We're not just a fitness center; we're a family dedicated to supporting each other, celebrating achievements, and overcoming challenges together.

Take Time for You with CORE57

Wellness is not a destination, but a journey and at CORE57, we're here to support you every step of the way. So this holiday season, let's prioritize YOU. Because when you feel good, the holiday cheer multiplies. Ready to embark on your personalized wellness journey with us? Let's get started!