The holiday season can be one of the most exhausting times of the year. Fighting the crowds, cooking the turkey, hosting family gatherings, and catching up on those last minute work details—it’s no wonder many people find themselves overwhelmed. Feeling like you’re running on empty and losing focus? Here are some tips to keep your spirits up, your mind sharp, and your energy levels high during the festive season.
Tip 1—Limit Sugar Intake
Those holiday cookies and sweets might deliver a quick energy jolt, but before you know it, you’ll be falling all over yourself, looking for the nearest bed or sofa for a nap. Munching on high-sugar snacks can lead to those dreaded energy spikes and dips, ultimately leaving you feeling slow and sluggish. Instead, eat energy-boosting foods like lean proteins, pumpkin seeds, fiber-rich cereals, yogurt, and nuts to help you maintain a high energy level, and avoid holiday fatigue.
Tip 2—Lace up Your Running Shoes
Unfortunately, your health and fitness routine can take a back seat over the holidays. Homemade cookies and pies, turkey with all the trimmings, and sweets as far as the eye can see is enough to tempt even the most dedicated yoga or gym buff. What’s more, going for a jog when it’s cold outside is not exactly on most people’s to-do lists. But exercising during the holiday season is a great way to relieve stress, boost endorphins, and help you stay alert. If running in the frigid temperatures is not your thing (and honestly, who can blame you), go for a swim, head to the gym, or try some indoor rock climbing.
Tip 3—Get Organized
There are simply not enough hours in the day during the busy season—unless, maybe you’ve got Santa’s magic. Juggling holiday preparations, family, and your job can eat up all your time and drain your energy. Getting organized is a great way to stay on top of things (and keep your sanity). Create a list of everything that needs to get done and do your best to stick to it. Prioritize the things that mean the most to you—spending time with family, baking holiday treats, and decorating your home— and simplify everything else. For example, if the thought of gift wrapping all those presents makes your head spin, consider using holiday drawstring or gift bags.
Tip 4—Soak up Some Light
We all know it is the season to be merry and bright, but the shorter and darker days can cause seasonal affective disorder (SAD), resulting in fatigue, depression, and even weight gain. Plus, a lack of sunshine coupled with spending more time than usual indoors may put you at risk for vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to daytime sleepiness. Beat the winter-time blues by spending some time outside, even if it is grey and cold.
Tip 5—Take Japanese Red Reishi
Japanese red reishi is one of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s most powerful herbs. It is classified as an energy tonic that also calms the mind. And who couldn’t use calm energy during the busy holiday season—or anytime, for that matter? Taking just one capsule daily of Mikei’s Japanese red reishi can help get you through even the busiest of holidays, allowing you to fully enjoy spending quality time with friends and family this festive season.
Being merry isn’t something that should be limited to the holiday season. So, give yourself a gift of vigour and vitally all year long with these helpful energy tips.
