Tips for Surviving the Festive Season with Your Health Intact

It’s no surprise that Christmas and New Year are bad for your health – after all, most of us indulge in too much ‘holiday’ food and drink and slacken off our usual exercise routine.

As well, for many women and their families, Christmas can seem like a blur of rushing around, over commitments and financial strain.

For some people festivals such as Christmas can also serve to remind them how alone they are. Jane Fisher, the Jean Hailes professor of women’s health, says it’s ok to take a moment to remember someone or to just sit quietly and reflect and think about them. “If you have friends or family struggling with feelings of sadness at this time of year, let them know that you are thinking of them.”

Jean Hailes GP Dr Vivienne Whitechurch adds that you don’t have to please everyone by catching up before Christmas. “Plan to meet in January when things are quieter and you feel more relaxed.”

Jean Hailes endocrinologist Dr Sonia Davison encourages everyone to use the warmer weather to get moving. “Take your family (and dog) for a brisk nightly walk to see the Christmas lights in your neighbourhood. It’s a magical time to share, whether you celebrate Christmas or not, and you’re getting fit at the same time!”

With a little planning, you can enjoy the holiday season and keep focus on what is most important to you at this time of year.

Tips to help you plan ahead

• Pick and choose what social events you go to – you don’t need to catch up with everyone before Christmas!
• At your work social function bring a plate of colourful, yet easy to make food – you may be surprised how many people appreciate your effort
• Be aware of how much alcohol you are consuming – alternate alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Enjoy the warm weather – mix up your physical activity with swimming in the ocean or outdoor pool with walking the dog or cycling in the evening along a favourite path
• Eat a nutritious breakfast – you are less likely to snack throughout the day
• Make some of your socialising ‘walking’ catch ups – walk along the beach, meet at a park or walk with the family to see the Christmas lights in your neighbourhood
• Negotiate when and which side of the family you will have Christmas with in advance – alternate years or have different days to make it fair
• Buy ‘active’ presents this Christmas for the young and young at heart – try sports gear, bike equipment, a kite or fancy drink bottle
• Drink and nibbles or dinner – don’t do both as you’ll end up eating way more than usual
• Maintaining your weight is a win at Christmas – preventing weight gain is far better than putting on weight
• Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many people – be kind to yourself, and to others, who have lost a loved one or who are on their own
• Make it simple and keep it fun – create memories that last!

Published with the permission of Jean Hailes for Women’s Health 1800 JEAN HAILES (532 642)