The Most Stressful Time of the Year
This is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but most of us are overwhelmed with parties, shopping, and family obligations that it’s hard to enjoy the holiday season. Even though Christmas Day is almost here, and New Years Eve will follow shortly thereafter, that doesn’t mean you’re any less stressed. It seems the closer we get to the big holidays, the more frazzled we get. Here are some easy tips to give you more energy as you enter the holiday home stretch.
Easy Does It
One of the easiest things to do is overeat during the holidays. From office parties to neighborhood potlucks, a bounty of tempting dishes abound. There is nothing wrong with sampling a little of each, but make sure not to binge. When you binge or overeat, the blood in your body rushes to your digestive system to break down all that food leaving you tired and lethargic.
Just a Spoonful
While you are avoiding bingeing, you should also limit your sugar intake. You might get a slight surge of energy after consuming sugary treats, but your blood sugar will spike and then it will plummet leaving you even more tired.
The best time to eat sweets is with a meal that includes fat, fiber, and protein. These will help metabolize the sugar better into your bloodstream and give your digestive system something substantial to convert to energy.
Caffeine Boost
If you do indulge in some sweet treats, go for chocolate, preferably dark chocolate. This will give you a little pick-me-up because chocolate has caffeine. If you need even more of a caffeine boost, go ahead and have a cup of coffee.
Try to stay away from those holiday drinks served at coffee shops though. Most are loaded with sugar and will cause an energy crash after the caffeine wears off.
Lace Up Those Sneakers
It may seem counterintuitive, but keeping up with your fitness routine is a great way to have more energy. After a long day, the last thing you may want to do is go to the gym or get in a quick run, but if you force yourself to get in some physical activity, studies show it can boost energy levels.
Working out can also reduce stress levels, which as we know, can be quite high during the holidays.
These tips may seem difficult to incorporate during one of the most stressful times of the year, but trying at least one may give you a bit more energy, which you will need when your in-laws stay longer than you agreed upon.
If your energy is low due to illness, remember, Neighbors Emergency Centers treat severe cold and flu symptoms like excessive coughing and high hever. Neighbors is open 24/7, 365 days a year, even on Christmas and New Years Day. Find your nearest Neighbors at nec24.com.