Ho Ho Ho! How is everyone feeling?
Are you hustling and bustling with holiday cheer? Are you feeling peaceful and laid back taking in the sights and sound?
OR are you feeling a little bit of holiday burnout – overwhelmed, anxious, and overly stressed about the perceived expectations of the season?
I get it – we don’t always have that Pinterest-perfect decor or live like Hallmark Christmas movies (though I will gladly binge-watch them).
There is a TON going on this time of year, which is why we started off by prioritizing to set you up for a successful season. Even if you have your schedule all figured out, you might still feel like dragging your feet a bit.
Maybe you need to step back and take 5. One of my best ways to get recharged and back on track is to move my body. Our next tip will help you find ways to boost your mood and get back into the holiday cheer!
TIP #7 – MOVE IT
That’s right – keep moving! Exercise has so many positive benefits on your mental health.
It can help boost your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and help you sleep better. It can even help alleviate feelings of social withdrawal.
Find ways to add some extra movement into your days. Park farther away from the store so you have to walk a little more. Take a couple extra trips up and down the stairs.
Your movement doesn’t have to be all at one time. Just find some times throughout the day to take 5-10 minutes to get some extra moves in to make you feel healthier and happier.
Check out our post on improvising workouts for some more simple moves you can fit in during the holiday rush. Or join us for our Happy Holiday line dance – the most fun way to keep you moving this holiday season!
If you are looking for a little pick-me-up and boost of natural energy help to get you through, check out the yummy recipe below!
Fudgy Brownie Bites
This recipe from Kathy Smith is filled with good-for-you ingredients and makes for a great portable snack. Not only are they easy grab-and-go treats, but they are an excuse to eat chocolate!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (about 15) soft medjool dates – if dates are hard, soak in warm water for about 10 minutes
- 1 cup raw walnuts
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1/4 cup raw cocoa powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 2 scoops chocolate protein powder
Topping Options:
- finely chopped dark chocolate
- cocoa nibs
- coconut flakes
- chia seeds
- ground flax seed
Directions:
- Soak the walnuts and cashews in warm water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Add the nuts, dates, cocoa powder, and salt to a food processor. Blend, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides, until a fudgey consistency is achieved.
- Add the chocolate to the food processor and pulse a few times to roughly chop the chocolate.
- Remove the blade and, using your hands, form the batter into 1 inch round balls.
- Roll the balls in the topping(s) of your choice.
- Store in the refrigerator for a few days or in the freezer for up to 2 months!
How will you keep moving through the holidays? Let us know in the comments!
