The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating memories with friends and
family. But amongst the festive madness, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and neglect your
own well-being. To help you stay in great shape and enjoy December, we have some useful
tips which will help you thrive this holiday season, both mentally and physically.
The Oxygen Mask- Self Care First
With busy schedules and endless to-do lists, self-care often takes a back seat in December.
Just as you need to put your oxygen mask on before helping others in an emergency, self-
care emphasizes prioritising your physical, mental, and emotional well-being before attending to others’ needs. Here are some simple self-care tips to keep in mind:
- Walk Daily: walking daily, especially in the morning, exposes you to natural light
and creates optic flow, which is the motion pattern generated at your eyes as you
move through your environment. This helps to stimulate the brain’s visual cortex,
promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Walk outside for at least 5-10 minutes on
sunny days, 10-15 minutes on cloudy days, and 30 minutes on heavily overcast day. - Book a Chiropractic Adjustment: Regular chiropractic visits can help keep your
body aligned. This can help you move and function better throughout the day. - Unplug and Recharge: Make time to disconnect from screens and enjoy a few
moments of quiet. Read a book, take a walk, or simply breathe deeply—your mind
will thank you.
Move Well- Be Active Whilst still Enjoying the Festivities
It’s tempting to have a break from the gym throughout December. However, staying active is
key to managing stress and keeping your energy levels high. Here are some easy ways to
incorporate movement into your holiday routine:
- Make It Fun: Turn family gatherings into opportunities for fun activities like a walk to
see Christmas lights. - Stretch During Travel: If you’re travelling for the holidays, don’t forget to stretch!
Long car journeys or flights can cause stiffness and discomfort. Try simple stretches
like neck rolls or seated twists to keep your muscles loose. - Keep It Gentle: Even if you don’t have time for a full workout, opt for quick, low-
impact exercises like yoga or Pilates that keep your body moving without adding
stress.
Breather, Relax, Recharge- Keep Stress in Check
The holiday season can be stressful, with endless to-do lists and expectations. Stress often
manifests physically, causing muscle tension, headaches, and even back pain. Incorporating
relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can ease both your mind and
body. A visit to your chiropractor can also help release built-up tension and keep you feeling
your best.
Posture is key to Good Health
Holiday prep, from wrapping gifts to decking the halls, can strain your neck, back, and
shoulders. Protect yourself by:
- Lifting Smart: Use your gluteals (buttock muscles)—not your back—when handling
heavy decorations or gifts. - Gift wrapping- Use higher surfaces, like counters or dining tables or an ironing
board to wrap presents. Avoid the floor! - Taking Breaks: Step away from wrapping or decorating every so often to stretch and
move around. These small pauses can prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
Let’s Stay Calm & Chilled Out!
Staying grounded and calm during the holidays can be challenging, but it’s essential for
managing stress. Here’s how to incorporate mindfulness into your routine:
- Practice Deep Breathing: Taking a few minutes each day for deep breathing
exercises can reduce stress and help clear your mind. Try breathing in for a count of
four, holding for four, and exhaling for four. - Stay Present: Focus on enjoying the little moments, whether it’s a quiet morning
coffee or the laughter of friends and family. Mindfulness helps you appreciate the
season without feeling overwhelmed by it. - Chiropractic Care for Calmness: A chiropractic adjustment can help release
physical tension, creating a sense of relaxation that carries through your day.
Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
Rich foods and sugary treats are common during the season. However, eating too much can
cause inflammation and increase joint pain.
Eat a balanced diet with anti-inflammatory foods. Include fruits, vegetables, and omega-3-
rich options like salmon and walnuts. Staying hydrated is equally important—water helps
maintain the joints cushioning system and supports overall spinal health, especially those
discs.
Thrive This December with a Healthy Balance
May your holiday season with be filled with joy, not stress or discomfort. By following these
simple tips and adding chiropractic care to your routine, you can add to the enjoyment of
your celebrations. Wishing you a healthy, joyous holiday season.