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The Vail Vitality Center’s Holiday Health Series is here to help you keep your wellness in check during this abundant (and yes, busy) time of year. Go ahead and dig in … 

 

The holidays have arrived, so before you let yourself be swept away in ribbons of overwhelming thoughts, get intentional about how you want this season to unfold.

Dr. Eliza Klearman, licensed naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist in Eagle, explains how staying healthy during the holidays isn’t just about fending off too much processed sugar. Focus on eating healthy and exercising, yes, but also on creating socio-emotional wellness.

“The holidays are supposed to be a time to bring family and friends together, not for stress,” she explains. “This time of year can be overwhelming and busy, but remember that they can be wonderful, uplifting and pretty darn fun.”

So much of the wellness process is mental, Klearman adds, so keep your head up with joy and gratitude.

“Go into this season with the right attitude, and the results will be positive rather than painful,” she adds.

Here’s Klearman’s 4 suggestions to keep your mind, body and spirit in a state of balance and vitality through the bustle of the holiday season:

1. Savor The Ritual Of The Season

Religious or not, make the season meaningful to you with whatever illuminates your spirit.

“These funny things we do like decorating trees, making traditional foods, stringing lights on the house, and exchanging gifts are quite wonderful rituals,” Klearman says.

During the darkest days of the year, appreciate the light and beauty you can bring into your life.

“Your tree is a way to bring a bit of nature indoors, and exchanging gifts is a way to tell someone you care,” she shares. “Acknowledge that the holiday season is full of spirituality and ritual, and it will help you to remember that these are not obligations — these are symbols of the deeper meaning of enjoying the winter season.”

2. Socialize Intentionally

Cozy up by the fire, yes, but also surround yourself with people who make you laugh, interest or inspire you.

“Instead of focusing on social events as obligations, focus on all you get from those interactions with other people — a sense of belonging, connectivity and joy,” suggests Klearman.

She says that we need other people, and she’s fairly confident that the majority of your social interactions are positive — even when you fear or dread them initially.

3. Have More Fun

Get out there and play …

“Make the time to do something you love — every day,” Klearman says. “Ski, snowshoe, exercise, play games, build a snow man, put together a puzzle, bake with your family or friends.”

It is essential, she adds, for your emotional well-bring to smile and laugh, so don’t be so serious all the time.

4. Give Yourself A Reality Check

Klearman recommends keeping a gratitude journal. Simply write down 3 things every day for which you are grateful.

“This is a great reminder not to sweat the small stuff,” she says, “and realize that we are blessed to be able to live the lives we have.”

Kim Fuller is a freelance writer and yoga instructor based in the Vail Valley, Colorado. 

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