It’s December 24 (aka: Christmas Eve), can you believe it? Chances are you can believe it because you’re stress levels are at an all-time high. Even if you’re shopping is done, and your groceries are picked up and safe traveling is complete, there’s always something left to do (is that the kitchen timer going off?).
But let’s not dwell on that. After all, things usually have a way of coming together, no extra worry needed.
So, amidst all of the crazy, yet festive chaos that is Christmas Eve, make sure you take a little time to have some holiday fun. After all, it’s probably safe to say that with everything you’ve managed to do this holiday season, you deserve to relax and enjoy yourself. However, we know that’s easier said than done.
With that in mind, here are 5 super-easy ways you can enjoy some yuletide merriment today (and the coming Christmases):
1. Get a pop of flavor. While there’s no denying that cookies are king this time of year, it may be time to shake things up—or rather pop things up. That’s right, we’re talking about popcorn. Instead of using cookies as your base layer to decorate, try a healthier alternative, like popcorn. You can opt for melted dark chocolate drizzled over popcorn with almonds and sea salt, or popcorn with crushed peppermints, drizzled white chocolate and sprinkles galore. If you’re looking for something a little more ambitious, here are a few simple recipes to try: Dark Chocolate Drizzled Kettle Corn, Sweet and Salty M&M Popcorn, Funfetti Cake Batter Popcorn, Cookies & Cream Popcorn.
2. Step up your style game. One of the best parts of Christmas morning has to be getting to lounge around in your pajamas—at least for a little bit. However, getting new (preferably matching) PJs for everyone can be a pricey proposition. So, instead, try picking out a new, cozy pair of festive socks for everyone. Not only can you find some fun options out there (snowmen, reindeer, trees, elves, polar bears and more), the simple act of giving something (even as small as socks) will give you a boost of endorphins, or feel-good hormones.
3. Top off your favorite holiday drink. No, we aren’t talking about eggnog, apple cider or chai tea, although those are very tasty. Instead, we’re talking about the most notorious wintertime drink of all: hot cocoa. And while this tasty, cozy drink may taste like Christmas in a cup, you pay for it with all of the fat and sugar. So, instead of using premade mixes, try this healthy, homemade recipe and then create a hot chocolate bar. You can pick from whipped cream, marshmallows, caramel, candy canes, sprinkles or all of the above.
4. Have a little friendly competition. Spending ample time with friends and family is one of the most important reasons for the season, but sometimes you just need a little break from it all. The perfect solution: some friendly competition. You can enjoy playing a Christmas version of ‘Who Am I?’, or you can try your luck at the Draw a Snowman Challenge. And if all else fails, Christmas Charades is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, partaking in games like these can improve critical thinking, as well as boost logic and reasoning skills.
5. Camp out in your living room. While the weather outside may not be frightful, it’s definitely too chilly to be camping outside. So why not hunker down with everyone in your living room? You can enjoy a nice toasty fire, your go-to festive movie and ample cozy blankets for all. In addition to spending the night comfortable and snuggled up, you’ll get a boost in feelings of togetherness, as well as experiencing hygge. Plus, if you fall asleep downstairs, near the Christmas tree or stockings, it may spark nostalgic feelings of childhood and hoping to catch a glimpse of Santa.
‘Tis the season to be healthy.
To keep you focused on the things that really matter this holiday season ChoiceOne Urgent Care is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (holiday hours may vary). Whether it’s an allergic reaction, a broken bone or a flu bug, the experts at ChoiceOne keep the health of you and your family as their top priority. And should you ever need emergent care, GMC’s emergency departments and Children’s Emergency Center, are open to care for you and your family 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and are staffed by expert doctors and nurses specially trained in emergency care.
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