The holidays are fun, festive and exciting. They are also associated with weight gain, illness/accidents, depression and pain. Attention to a few simple tips can help you have a healthy holiday.
REDUCE WEIGHT GAIN
- Portion control. Don’t deny yourself the holiday delicacies. Just take a little and enjoy it slowly.
- Think low cal. Take a healthy low calorie contribution to pot luck dinners so you have something to help fill you up without filling you out.
- Eat first. Don’t go to a holiday event famished. Have a healthy low calorie snack before you go. You’ll be less likely to fill your plate with calories.
PREVENT ILLNESS AND ACCIDENTS
- Wash. To prevent the spread of germs, wash your hands often and encourage those around you to do the same. Carry hand sanitizer.
- Dress for success. Stay warm with layers of dry clothing. Take extra sets to outdoor events where you may get wet.
- Pay attention. Prevent falls by keeping sidewalks shoveled and salted. Slow down when a surface may be slippery. Leave early to account for weather delays. Watch for elderly who may need help balancing on icy conditions.
PREVENT DEPRESSION
- No is OK. You can’t do everything. Sometimes you have to say no. Don’t chase away positive energy feeling guilty about it.
- Help others. Lose yourself in certain activities that will benefit others. Spend time with people who have no family close by. Volunteer with a local charity. Watch for signs of depression in others and reach out to them.
- Treat yourself. Allow time to do something that makes you happy. Listen to holiday music. Watch a favorite classic movie. Sleep in.
PREVENT INTERFERENCE FROM PAIN
- Pain can be treated. If neck pain, back pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, or frequent headaches are keeping you from enjoying the festivities, call today for an immediate appointment.
- Physical therapy is a proven treatment. Our skilled therapists can diagnose the causes and prescribe a plan of stretches, exercises and manual “hands on” therapy to treat your pain.
Weight gain, illness or accidents, depression and pain don’t have to interfere with a healthy holiday.
Move More, Live More! Enjoy!
This blog is designed to provide general information on pertinent physical therapy topics. The statements made are provided for educational purposes only. They do not constitute medical advice nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Body Balance Physical Therapy or any of its therapists other than the author. This blog is not intended to create a therapist-client relationship between you and Body Balance Physical Therapy. If you have specific questions as to the application of these exercises to your medical condition, you should seek the advice of your physical therapist.