5 Mindset Tips for Mastering the Holidays

The holidays are around the corner! While the season can be sooo much fun, it can also feel like a whirlwind of stress, decadent meals, and disrupted routines. When you’re striving to look and feel your best, maintaining balance through the holidays is everything. Here are five mindset strategies to help you navigate the season with your health and wellness intact.

1. Strive For Progress, Not Perfection

Give up that need for perfection–all it does is create challenges, especially during the holidays. The perfectionist mindset actually leads to stress–and even overeating, especially after falling off track. Research shows that those adopting an all-or-nothing mentality tend to abandon their goals after a perceived failure. Your best route is to set small, achievable goals every week and reward your efforts. If you “slip,” forgive yourself and move forward.

2. Practice Mindful Eating

The holidays are filled with decadent treats that can be hard to resist. Instead of depriving yourself, practice mindful eating. Slow down, take smaller portions, and savor every bite. Engage all your senses and pay attention to the different flavors, textures, and aromas. This will help you enjoy your favorite holiday treats without overeating. PRO TIP: Read my blog post about mindful eating to learn more.

3. Move a Lot!

Holidays are busy, but making time for physical activity helps you make the most of them. Exercise reduces stress while boosting your energy and revving your metabolism. It improves your physical health, increases calorie burn, and elevates your mood by releasing endorphins. Work out at the gym, go running, or take your favorite classes whenever possible. If you can’t commit to a full workout, try short bursts of activity or just squeeze in movement whenever you can. Studies show that even 10- to 15-minute workouts, like a brisk walk or a quick HIIT session, improves heart health and your mood.

4. Practice Gratitude 

The holiday season is an excellent time to practice gratitude. Studies show that people with a regular gratitude practice experience increased happiness, improved physical health, and better sleep. Start the day writing in a gratitude journal, make lists of who and what you appreciate, and reflect positively about yourself and your life. Gratitude shifts focus from what we lack to what we have and makes us feel happier and more relaxed.

5. Prioritize Rest and Self-Care

Don’t sacrifice rest and self-care this season! Make proper diet and sleep a priority, and schedule mindfulness like meditation or self-care practices into your planner. This will help you stay healthy and energized, while boosting your immunity. Prioritize sleep with a calming evening routine—limit screen time, dim the lights, and practice deep breathing or meditation. Try small practices, like stretching, reading, or taking a bath, to help manage holiday stress. PRO TIP: Try meditating in nature for the ultimate energy boost!

The holidays can be filled with joy and wellness! Set your mindset and follow the strategies above to move through the season looking and feeling your best. Finish the year strong so you’ll be set up for a healthy and abundant 2025!