Why An Imperfect Holiday Is Best For Your Health

What do you consider to be the perfect holiday? Maybe there’s snow on the ground, or perhaps you’re in a tropical paradise. Is there a toasty fire and eggnog, or hot chocolate and a twinkling tree? While we may have these visions of what an idyllic holiday is supposed to look like, most of us have a much different experience. And you know what? It’s better that way.

Leave the winter wonderlands, sleigh rides and jingle bells to the songs and movies. Instead of overspending, overdoing and overeating to achieve a storybook holiday, let’s focus on enjoying, relaxing and embracing a one-of-a-kind celebration. Not only will you have more fun, your health may benefit, too.

To help you make the most of your wonderfully, imperfect holiday season, we asked Sheila Warren, RN, GMC's Wellness Navigator for simple ways to just that. With her help, we came up with these 5 tips to help you recapture the joy of the season, while also supporting your overall well-being:

1.    Reset your expectations. When it comes holiday hiccups—a burned turkey, a pet-wrecked tree, a delayed gift delivery—it’s not a matter of if, but a matter of when. While we all know this, sometimes the pressure of the season gets to us and little things become big things. "Put simply, the best way to minimize frustration and disappointment: don't expect everything to go exactly according to plan," explains Sheila. Besides, the best (and most memorable) holidays are the crazy, unique and imperfect ones.

2.    Maintain healthy habits. How in the world are you supposed to get in regular exercise amidst decorating and attending seasonal parties? Simple, just don’t try to do it all. It’s okay to not put up every last decoration, or not attend every single party on your calendar. Don’t be afraid to choose your health over other holiday to-dos. "That means following your usual schedule for meals, exercise and sleep," says Sheila. "These simple, yet essential, habits will help you to feel your best all season so you can enjoy every last part."

3.    Create new traditions. The holidays are known for being a time filled with family traditions. But there’s no reason you can’t marry time-old traditions with a fresh, new take on things. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and try something new. Sure, it may not be perfect, but you’ll make fun memories in the process. " You can try making homemade decorations, play a new board game, watch a favorite movie or sing Christmas-carol karaoke," adds Sheila. 

4.    Prep your party strategy. Just the thought of holiday treats is enough to get most of our tummies rumbling. And once you smell those delicious dishes—game over. Who can resist the sweet smell of freshly-baked cookies? That right there is exactly why it’s important to have a game plan before you arrive at a food-filled party. "One of the best things you can do is to grab a healthy snack beforehand, so you won’t arrive ravenous," emphasizes Sheila. "Once you’re at the party, scope out the food table and decide what you’ll eat before you start filling your plate."

5.    Don’t overspend on gifts. All of those online deals are hard to resist—BOGO, 40% off, Rewards Cash—yes, please! But before you know it, you’ve spent more than your fair share of the holiday budget because things add up quickly. And we get it; you just want to get the perfect gifts for everyone on your list, don’t we all? Instead of adding more and more to your shopping cart, "try making something homemade," says Sheila, "or donate to a special cause on their behalf." A thoughtful and meaningful gift goes a long way.

6.    Just enjoy yourself. Unfortunately, it isn’t just the salty, sugary foods that are hard on you. Or that extra gift you spent money on. It’s the guilt and hardship many of us experience afterwards. "We can be tough on ourselves," explains Sheila, "and this only spikes stress, anxiety and disappointment." So instead of pressuring yourself to not falter on your diet or budget, embrace the indulgence. "When you relax and let yourself celebrate your brain actually increases oxytocin, noradrenaline and endorphins, all of which boost happiness, energy and bonding," notes Sheila. Plus, these hormones also support physical health, too.

Have a holly jolly holiday. December doesn’t just mean dancing sugar plums and roasting chestnuts, it also means stomach bugs, the cold and flu, and seasonal stress. But just because there are a few health hurdles, doesn’t mean you have to miss all of the fun and festivities. Whether you’re in search of healthful information, preventative care or recommendations for diagnostics and treatment, GMC’s Wellness Navigator is prepared to offer the support and guidance you need. This holiday season, let GMC’s health experts keep you and your family feeling merry and bright.

Your Survival Guide For Holiday Parties

With the countdown to Christmas officially underway, your only focus should be on having fun. Holiday cheer comes in all shapes and sizes. For some, this may mean doing some last minute shopping, traveling to see friends and family or attending that annual holiday party. Oh—and who can forget baking some cookies, too?

And with only a few days to go until the big 2-5 (can you believe it’s already here?) it’s hard to keep all that seasonal stress under wraps. That’s why we’ve created a Santa-approved survival guide to help make all of your upcoming holiday parties the best—and healthiest—yet.

Crunch your calories. Before heading to the party, which likely has some irresistible treats, help yourself to some healthy helpings of lean protein, whole grains and fresh produce. Maybe those freshly-baked treats won’t look so delicious with a full tummy—right?

Make a plan. And stick to it. Before heading to a party, decide what foods you’re willing to splurge on—whatever you think you’ll enjoy the most—and avoid those other high-calorie treats. By deciding on the splurge upfront, you’ll be able to savor every bite.

Be the life of the party. And we’re not talking about having an extra glass of eggnog. Instead, focus on socializing and talking up a storm with everyone you can. After all, it’s hard to eat nonstop when you’re busy talking. And, if you hear your favorite carol playing, a little dancing can burn extra calories.

Take a load off. While it’s great to be up and moving around during the party, you’ll want to be sure to wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Take advantage of sitting when you can and try this simple foot stretch: Raise, point and curl your toes throughout the night.

Give yourself a timeout. There’s no denying that catching up with family and friends can be delightful, but it can also be exhausting. To avoid festivity fatigue, give yourself a break. This may mean stepping outdoors for some fresh air, going on a short walk or offering to help the host with something so you’ll be occupied.

Avoid holiday road hazards. While snow may not be in the forecast, safety should still be a top priority while you’re driving. Between dense traffic, distracted drivers and chilly weather, you’ll want to be sure you’re prepared. Make sure that seatbelts are fastened; your vehicle is cleared off (if there is frost or winter weather) and that you stay alert.

Get some sleep for goodness sake. Staying well-rested isn’t just important for heart health, concentration, mood and digestion, it will also help you look and feel your best for all of the festivities.

Have peace of mind. 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.