Getting Back Into a Healthy Routine After the Holidays

The holiday season is a magical time of the year, where we put our worries aside and enjoy the lighter aspects of life - the delicious aromas of holiday dinners, baked goods straight from the oven, beautiful bows, and fellowship with our loved ones. However, with the new year just beginning, it’s time to put the holidays past us. Because the holiday season consists of one event after the other filled with decadent food and lazing around, it can be hard to get back into your previous health routines. We're here to give you a helping hand and some motivation by providing our top tips on how to get back into a routine after the holidays.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water doesn't just keep you hydrated; it also prevents unclear thinking, mood changes, and promotes gut health. Being dehydrated can cause a staggering number of consequences to your health. Keeping hydrated is an easy way to alleviate these concerns.  

According to the CDC, recommendations for water consumption varies from person to person. Although a popular saying, studies have shown that the 8 cups a day rule isn't a catch-all for everyone - there is no reason to drink more water when your body doesn't need it. If you're finding it hard to remember to keep yourself hydrated, here are a handful of good ways to make it easier for yourself:

• Carry a refillable water bottle 
• Infuse your water with some lime or lemon, or even your favorite fruits 
• Keep your cup/mug/water bottle in arms reach so that it is easily accessible
• Download an app that helps remind you about water intake

Keep Moving

Staying stagnant not only keeps you from being in shape but also affects your mental health. The new norm of working from home can easily create an environment where many do not leave their house on a daily basis. It's vital for both your physical and mental health to venture outside for some fresh air and to get a change of scenery. It can be hard to motivate yourself to do a full workout, but going on a short walk gets you moving and allows you to take small steps (literally) toward your goals. 

For anyone working from home, getting some extra sunlight is the perfect way to refresh your perspective. Committing to three walks a week can help your body absorb the vitamin D necessary to keep you healthy and happy. Even if you can't make it outside, there are still many ways to keep moving inside. Try these at-home workout programs to stay in shape!

Prioritize Sleep

The foundation of our day actually begins the night before. Poor sleep habits can lead to deeper issues, messing with your emotional regulation, your ability to be alert and focused, as well as your ability to think clearly. The National Sleep Foundation states that grown-ups should have at least seven to nine hours of sleep a night. When determining how much sleep you should be getting, there are other factors to keep in mind, such as your activity level and health. Staying up late can be tempting, but putting yourself and the amount of quality rest you are getting first is a mind-set worth practicing. Some tips to getting better sleep include:

• Avoid daytime naps
• Keep a consistent sleep schedule
• Reduce late-night eating and caffeine consumption
• Keep away from blue light before bed  
• Read a book and avoid any midnight phone scrolling

Journal Your Thoughts, Dreams, and Goals

Sometimes we need to hold ourselves accountable to be able to look back on our development. The best way to do this is to keep a journal to set clear goals and keep yourself on track, as well as reflect on yourself as an individual. 

From logging dreams to gratitude, or starting five-year journals - the possibilities are endless! The benefits of keeping a journal can reduce stress, give you mental clarity, lessen negative thinking, and overall improve your state of mind. Check out our collection of journals to get started on paving your journey for this year.

It's The Little Things

Trying to get back to the grind after the holidays are over can quickly become overwhelming. That's why taking small steps to a bigger goal can help you center yourself and give you something to focus on. The mind is a wonderful thing and when you feed it with positivity as well as keep your body in good condition, the rewards are well worth it. 

At ACEBSA, we want you feeling like your best self. Feel free to reach out to us via our live chat on the homepage of our website. From everyone here at ACEBSA, have a happy and healthy year!