Even if looking and feeling good are things that are important to you, there will be times when you’ll make choices that aren’t aligned with that priority. And, as you know all too well, the holidays are FULL of opportunities to step into misalignment!

 

When I say misalignment, I mean things like…

… Staying up far too late watching TV or binging on Netflix

 

… Overindulging in aunt Sarah’s homemade caramels and holiday brownies

 

… Drinking too many cocktails at that holiday party

 

… Imbibing in too much coffee trying to recover from all of the above

… Skipping yoga (or dance class, or swimming, or that walk you intended to take)

 

… Wearing frumpy, stained or torn clothing that you wouldn’t want anyone to see you in

 

… Eating seconds, or even thirds at that holiday meal, even though your tummy is already full

 

… Canceling the massage you scheduled because you’re too tired

 

… Saying yes to an invite when you’d rather stay home and cozy up

 

… Neglecting to create a holiday spending budget, or surpassing it

 

… Not saying yes to invitations and opportunities that bring joy and pleasure into your life

… Slipping into a feeling of obligation and “should” energy when it comes to all of the holiday traditions you’ve upheld in the past

… Not wanting to disappoint others, but neglecting yourself and your own enjoyment in the process

… Feeling like you should do it all yourself instead of enlisting support or saying “yes” to the support that presents itself or is available for the asking

As a little gift to you I’m sharing the things that I do to stay in alignment and maintain my priority of looking and feeling good throughout the holidays (and beyond!).

1) I keep electronics out of my bedroom, and instead make cozying up with a great book (and my mini book light) part of my night time relaxation routine. Screens are draining, so giving your eyes and your nervous system a break at the end of the day will allow you to unwind more quickly, fall asleep and stay asleep. 

 

2) Enjoying the sweets and treats of the holiday season is something I love, but in moderation AND if at all possible, with healthier alternatives. I make my own version of decadent holiday cookies, brownies, and even hot cocoas. I never feel deprived, and my body thanks me for my healthier choices, too. (For some really yummy holiday recipes that meet all of my criteria for Transcendent Health, check out my free online community here.)

3) I personally don’t drink alcohol, but I DO love sipping something special out of martini, champagne or wine glass. It’s just more fun that way! Kombucha, fermented coconut water drinks, even some freshly juiced fruits and veggies with a splash of sparkling water is just LOVELY, and keeps me feeling like I’m celebrating with awareness, which I love.

4) I make physical movement an integral part of my day. I usually wake up early and walk, do yoga, or some other activity. But, if my body wants more sleep, as it often does this time of year, I will incorporate movement into my day in another way. Taking my son to the park, going for a bike ride, or even walking around the neighborhood with him can be a fun replacement for something I’d otherwise have done in the wee hours of the morning.

5) I get dressed every day, with jewelry and just a little makeup. I always feel “put together” and far more confident and powerful than I would if I’d skipped this important step. AND, if it’s a very special day when my son and I are going to be in our pj’s for the day (these are rare), I will always put on a fresh pair of pajamas and a spritz of my favorite natural perfume. 😉

6) When I eat during the holidays the most important thing for me is to be really present while I’m eating. I dine with my eyes first, appreciating my food, and then I chew it deliberately, tasting the flavors, appreciating the textures, and feeling such gratitude for the nourishment that’s there in the moment. I take my time, staying tuned in to how my body is feeling and what it needs. This naturally prevents any tendency to overeat, and it makes the entire dining experience more pleasurable!

7) I schedule self-care well in advance – massages, mani-pedis, a haircut and even a facial… These are a non-negotiable and sure-fire way to ensure I’m looking and feeling my best. I also love to take hot baths at home and indulge in a little in-home facial or self-massage with some beautifully scented body lotion. Spending time on YOU is always time well spent!

8) There are a lot of ways to create a holiday budget for yourself and your family. No matter your methodology, I feel it’s just important to DO IT. Even if you’re making gifts for others, or offering your time as a gift, take into consideration what you can actually give – a number (be it in monetary amounts or in time and energy) that will leave you feeling like you gave without holding back OR over giving. Only you can know where that “sweet spot” is for you.

9) Years ago, I learned from one of my mentors the importance of choosing a theme for myself for the holidays. It’s usually one, maybe two words. And from this theme I make a lot of my choices about what I say “yes” to, what I politely decline, how I decorate, and even what I wear when it comes to holiday related invites and activities. This year my theme is “Warmth”, so I’m envisioning lots of time by the fire, cozying up under warm blankets with a cup of tea or cocoa, spending quality, heart-connected time with my son and loved ones, taking hot mineral salt baths, and choosing to engage in things that warm my heart.

10) There are 2 things that are always a part of my diet, and they are even more essential when the holidays roll around. These are green juices and green smoothies. If I do happen to overindulge, I can immediately get back on track and simultaneously alkalize my body with green juices and smoothies. My skin loves it, my digestive system appreciates it, and my energy and vitality thrive. I can’t say enough about this practice. Try it for yourself and see!

 

What do you do to ensure you’re looking and feeling your best during the holiday season?

 

With love and Transcendent Health,

 

Alicia

 

PS: I share similar tips, recipes and tidbits in my free online community. If you’d like to receive even more, join us here!