Do This, Not That: 9 Healthier Choices for a Balanced Holiday Season
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Time to read 8 min
The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and indulgence, but they can also bring overindulgence and exhaustion that throw us off balance. Instead of letting the season derail your well-being, take this opportunity to make small, healthier choices that let you fully enjoy the festivities without sacrificing how you feel.
Now is the perfect time to get a head start on your New Year’s resolutions–start making simple, intentional lifestyle changes that set you up for a healthier, more grounded year ahead. This isn’t about restriction—it’s about making mindful swaps that allow you to embrace the season’s joy while nourishing your body, calming your mind, and restoring your energy.
Here are 9 healthier choices to celebrate the holidays with wellness and balance:
Table of Contents
1. Warm Up with Herbal Tea, Not Sugary Hot Cocoa 2. Prioritize Restful Sleep, Not Late-Night Binge-Watching 3. Take a Nature Walk, Don’t Scroll Social Media 4. Opt for Dark Chocolate, Not Sugary Desserts 5. Savor a THC Gummy, Not Another Cocktail 6. Enjoy a Plant-Based Meal, Not Heavy Cream-Based Dishes 7. Dance Around the House, Don’t Watch Endless Holiday Movies 8. Choose Nut Butters, Not Sugary Spreads 9. Take Time for Yourself, Don’t Push Through Exhaustion Celebrate Without Compromise
1. Warm Up with Herbal Tea, Not Sugary Hot Cocoa
Nothing beats the comfort of a warm drink during winter, but sugary hot cocoa can leave you feeling bloated and sluggish. Instead, embrace the soothing ritual of herbal tea. Chamomile calms the mind and promotes relaxation, while peppermint aids digestion after indulgent meals. Ginger tea adds warmth and boosts immunity—perfect for cold days. Each sip hydrates and nourishes, creating a cozy moment of balance without the sugar crash. Want a festive twist? Add a drizzle of honey or a cinnamon stick for natural sweetness and holiday cheer.
2. Prioritize Restful Sleep, Not Late-Night Binge-Watching
The holiday season often comes with late nights, but sacrificing sleep takes a toll on your energy and mood. Trade another episode for a calming bedtime routine. Our Sleep Gummies+ can help you gently fall asleep, while our Sleep Tincture is specially formulated to support uninterrupted rest through the night. Pair these with soft lighting or a good book to wind down naturally. Restful sleep helps you wake up rejuvenated and ready to fully enjoy each festive day.
3. Take a Nature Walk, Don’t Scroll Social Media
Instead of getting lost in an endless scroll, step outside for a refreshing nature walk. A crisp stroll clears the mind, reduces stress, and recharges your energy—perfect for finding calm amidst the holiday chaos. Even 20 minutes outdoors can lower cortisol and lift your mood. Make it social by inviting a loved one, or use the quiet time for reflection and mindfulness. It’s a simple yet powerful way to reconnect with yourself and the season.
4. Opt for Dark Chocolate, Not Sugary Desserts
Holiday desserts may be tempting, but they often bring more sugar than satisfaction. Swap cookies and cakes for rich, antioxidant-packed dark chocolate with 70% cacao or higher. Dark chocolate not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also supports heart health and boosts brain function. For an elevated treat, pair it with a handful of nuts or drizzle it over fresh fruit. Simple, decadent, and packed with benefits, this swap brings indulgence without the sugar overload.
For more healthier ways to indulge, check out 9 Foods to Crush Sugar Cravings This Holiday Season
5. Savor an edible, Not Another Cocktail
Skip the extra cocktail and unwind with a THC-infused Leisure Gummy. This mindful alternative helps you relax and connect without the sugar spike or morning hangover. Whether you're carrying on with friends and family or getting cozy with a blanket and holiday movie, let it create a guilt-free evening. Edibles offer a lighter way to indulge, leaving you refreshed and ready to fully enjoy the season.
6. Enjoy a Plant-Based Meal, Not Heavy Cream-Based Dishes
Holiday meals don’t have to feel heavy. Swap cream-based casseroles for vibrant, plant-based dishes like roasted root vegetables, quinoa salads, or a warming lentil stew. These nutrient-rich options nourish the body and complement the season’s flavors without weighing you down. By balancing indulgence with lighter, wholesome meals, you’ll feel energized and ready for all the holiday fun.
7. Dance Around the House, Don’t Watch Endless Holiday Movies
Holiday movies have their charm, but hours on the couch can leave you feeling sluggish. Instead, turn up your favorite playlist and dance like no one’s watching. Dancing not only gets your body moving but also lifts your spirits and creates joyful memories with loved ones. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add energy-boosting movement to your day while having fun.
For more activities that enhance your energy rather than drain it, check out 10 Natural Ways to Boost Your Energy in 10 Minutes or Less
8. Choose Nut Butters, Not Sugary Spreads
Sugary spreads may taste nostalgic, but they often lead to energy crashes. Choose almond, hazelnut, or cashew butter instead—packed with protein and healthy fats for lasting energy. Spread it on whole-grain crackers, pair it with fresh fruit, or mix it with a touch of cinnamon for a festive flavor. This simple swap keeps you fueled and feeling balanced all day long.
For more healthier ways to indulge, check out 9 Foods to Crush Sugar Cravings This Holiday Season
9. Take Time for Yourself, Don’t Push Through Exhaustion
The holidays can be busy, but pushing through exhaustion doesn’t serve you. Carve out 10 minutes for yourself to breathe, stretch, or simply sit still. These small moments of intentional rest help you stay centered and recharge your energy. Remember, prioritizing your well-being allows you to show up fully for everything the season has to offer.
Celebrate Without Compromise
This holiday season, let balance and intention be your compass. The joy of the holidays doesn’t have to come at the expense of your well-being. By making simple, thoughtful swaps—like prioritizing restful sleep, choosing nourishing foods, and creating meaningful moments of movement or stillness—you can fully savor the season while supporting your mind, body, and spirit.
Start small, and start now. Each mindful choice helps you embrace the best of the season without the overwhelm or exhaustion that so often follows. Whether it’s swapping sugary treats for nutrient-rich alternatives, taking a moment for yourself amidst the busyness, or simply choosing experiences that nurture connection, these small shifts set the tone for a healthier, more balanced New Year.
Step into January refreshed, fulfilled, and truly present—ready to take on your resolutions with energy and intention. Here’s to a holiday season that not only brings joy but also leaves you glowing from the inside out.
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