Peace and goodwill to all—that’s the goal as we all charge toward what we hope will be a happy holiday. But with gift shopping, family events, holiday parties at work and with friends, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. The air is filled with joy, and yet too often we lose sight of it as our calendars get bogged down and we let go of the little things that empower us to feel successful every day.
As holiday cheer fills the air, you can put your best face forward for a more successful day, week and month (and years to come) by being intentional about your health from the inside out.
Here are 5 ways to supercharge your life for a happier holiday and improved outlook everyday, starting today.
Get energized
Holiday foods are notorious for packing on the pounds, which can deplete energy and leave you feeling less than great. Don’t wait for the New Year to create a new resolution. This season, get out and start moving. Find an activity you enjoy. You don’t have to hit the gym to be active. Go for a hike. Ride a bike. Go for a swim. You’ll kick your metabolism into higher gear, and release endorphins that can help beat depression and anxiety and give you a more positive outlook on the day ahead.
Go for an inner glow
Creams and lotions abound, promising a youthful glow and years erased. But beauty should be more than skin deep. Go for an inner glow by eating right. Even as you enjoy (in moderation) holiday treats, make sure you’re supplementing your diet with nutritious foods, and keeping hydrated with plenty of water. Be intentional about your health and you’ll feel stunning as you walk into your next holiday party.
Improve your outlook
Your eyes are the windows to your soul, and keeping them healthy can dramatically improve your life. Be proactive about your health and get your eyes checked out for common eye ailments and, if needed, corrective solutions. In this season of gift giving, consider clearer vision a gift to yourself. Glasses, contacts or LASIK can improve your vision—and better vision means a better quality of life.
Give of yourself
It’s better to give than to receive. If you’ve never experienced the joy of giving, this season is a great time to start. Giving takes our focus off of our stresses, and ourselves and enables us to enter into the lives of others in meaningful ways. Giving isn’t always in gifts or money. Giving can be time, helpfulness, kind words, and actions. Consider what and how you can give to others this season. You’ll feel rejuvenated through and through.
Smile
Planning the perfect outfit for the next holiday party can be stressful. You can cut the stress and look stunning no matter what you wear, simply by putting on a smile. This small action goes a long way in bringing joy to others, and mysteriously, joy to you. Studies show that it might not be feelings that influence a smile, so much as the smile that influences the feelings. So whether you feel like it or not, smile. You’ll be glad you did.
Don’t get lost in the stress of the season. Tap into the joy and cheer by getting intentional about making it a happy holiday, and getting serious about improving your life.
