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Our Healthy Bodies

Staying Healthy Through the Holidays

While we all enjoy the excitement and good times around the Holidays, it can also be a time of increased stress and not-so-healthy eating.  Here are a few ideas to help keep you healthy and strong during these busy times, while still enjoying all the great food and good times the Holidays bring our way.  Cheers!

· Eat a healthy snack before going out to parties and Holiday events.  Make sure to include some protein, which will keep you feeling somewhat full for a longer time—and less tempted to overdo on sweets and rich foods.

A hard-boiled egg or a few slices of lunch meat are fast and easy to eat before events.

 

· Bring a healthy dish to share at Holiday events.  This could include a plate of vegetables and a yogurt dip, cut fresh fruit, or deviled eggs.  Now you can be sure at least one dish will be healthy to eat—and everyone will appreciate it.

· Alternate wine or alcoholic beverages with a glass of water at parties.  Be sure your last hour of an event is the one you are drinking water, to ensure you are safe to drive home.  You can also follow this alternating rule when drinking sodas, because water helps to re-hydrate the body after consuming alcohol or sodas.  Winter can be a very dehydrating time, so the extra water will help to keep you healthy.

· Do what you can to reduce stress and to take actions that help you blow off steam in a good way.  Exercise is not a luxury during these busy times—it can be the thing that keeps you strong and healthy to accomplish what you need to.

· Make a list of your priorities, then re-evaluate it and take off everything that is not absolutely essential.  Keep things simple.  Focus on time for family and friends, rather than on finding the perfect gifts or setting a perfect table.  Look for activities to do with friends and family, then follow with hot chocolate and sandwiches or cookies, instead of  fancy meals.

Take a few minutes to be grateful every day.  Say a prayer of thanks for all the incredible good things in life—list them out.  Especially when we are feeling overwhelmed, making the effort to remember and thank God for our blessings puts it all into perspective.   Happy Holidays to all!
             Susan Seaburg

Susan Seaburg is a Wellness Coach, Nutritionist, and Yoga Teacher who writes articles and consults with individuals and families to help them achieve their wellness objectives. © Susan Seaburg, 2006

Zephyr Point Family Retreat

January is right around the corner so now is the time to register for the wonderful St. Philip’s family retreat weekend taking place Friday 1/19 and Saturday 1/20 at the Zephyr Point Retreat Center in Lake Tahoe.  The cost is approximately $300 for a family of four for two night’s stay including meals.  You also have the option of staying additional days if you wish.  Each room is comfortable and boasts gorgeous views of Lake Tahoe.  Spend the days sledding, skiing downhill or cross-country, or just relaxing at the retreat.  Evenings are a great time to spend with other families in fellowship.

The rooms are rented on a first come, first serve basis and there are only two rooms left of the 15 originally reserved.  Get your room now before they are all gone. Contact Jose Gonzalez to get registered for this very special once-a-year St. Philip’s fellowship experience.

Zephyr Point Conference Center and Lodgings.

View of Lake Tahoe from Zephyr Point.