Between boozy end-of-year office parties and the stress of hosting Christmas lunch, surviving the silly season can certainly feel like a challenge. However, it doesn’t have to! In fact, according to Dr Sam Megalli, Pharmacist, Chief Executive Officer, and Founder of Ultra Nature, there are a number of easy hacks you can adopt so you can eat, drink, and be merry … And have some fun, without giving all your wellness goals the flick this festive season.
- Have yourself a merry mindful Christmas meal
According to Dr Sam, you don’t have to completely pass on Nan’s famous trifle come Christmas day. Or, say no to a glass of Champagne with your colleagues. Instead, the trick to tackling tables laden with tempting treats is to make mindful eating your mantra. “This means paying close attention to what you eat. Slow down, chew your food thoroughly, and listen to your body's hunger cues. This approach can help you enjoy your favourite dishes without overindulging.”
Similarly, Dr Sam also suggests practicing moderation. “ You don't need to deprive yourself of your favourite holiday foods, but be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoy a small slice of pavlova or a single glass of wine, and savour each bite or sip. This way, you can relish the flavours without overindulging.”
- Walk the walk …
Dr Sam’s second suggestion is to incorporate bouts of physical activity into your routine. “During the holidays, it's easy to abandon your regular routine due to busy schedules and travel,” he says. And while it's understandable that you may not be able to make your 6 a.m. HIIT class, including incidental exercises in your holiday plans, can be extremely helpful.
“This can be as simple as taking the dog for a walk after a big meal or kicking around a football with family after lunch, " says Dr Sam. “Staying active not only helps with weight management but also boosts your mood and energy levels.”
- Hydrate, with H2 Ho Ho Ho…
Santa may be a fan of cookies and milk (or beer!), but for those of us who swelter through a summery Southern Hemisphere festive season, Dr Sam suggests focusing on hydration during the holidays.
“With all the delicious beverages available during this time of year, it's easy to forget to drink water,” says Dr Sam. “However, h2o hydration is important to your overall wellness.”
He recommends starting your day with a glass of warm water with a slice of lemon before filling a bottle and sipping on it throughout the day. “Fruit-infused water and herbal teas also count and help ensure you consume your required two-litre minimum,” says Dr Sam.
Adding that “adequate hydration supports digestion, keeps your skin glowing, and helps control your appetite,”
- Silent night…
Amid the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations and gatherings, it's easy to skimp on sleep. However, Dr Sam explains the importance of prioritising rest and relaxation. “Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress and decreased immune function. I recommend creating a relaxing bedtime routine and aiming for at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night. A well-rested body is better equipped to handle the demands of the holiday season.”
- Stress less
The holidays can be a source of joy, but they can also be stressful. Which is why Dr Sam emphasises the importance of managing stress. “This may involve setting boundaries, practicing deep breathing techniques, or engaging in mindfulness and meditation. Reducing stress not only benefits your mental health but also supports your immune system.”
- Some supplement support
Dr Sam’s final suggestion for those seeking to keep the fun in the festive season is to consider supporting their lifestyle with a supplement designed to address any nutritional deficiencies.
“A multi-vitamin can help, but at Ultra Nature, we offer a range of naturally formulated scientifically supported supplements designed to address a range of specific health concerns,” says Dr Sam.
“These include Ultra Nature Liver Detox & Digestive Support, which features a combination of powerful antioxidants for superior liver function health and detox and healthy digestion. Ultra Nature Sleep & Stress - an all-natural supplement to support healthy sleep, relieve stress and reduce mild anxiety symptoms. And Ultra Nature NR Skin Hair & Energy, with hyaluronic acid and NR (an NAD+ Precursor).”
“Remember, the holidays are a time for connection and celebration, and your well-being is an essential part of the festivities. Stay mindful, stay active, stay hydrated, stay moderate, stay rested, and stay stress-free. These simple yet effective strategies will ensure you have a holiday season that's truly wonderful for both body and soul,” says Dr Sam.