It can be easy to say yes to the chocolate pie and no to the gym during this time of year. Schedules get packed, and it’s go time for traveling, leaving many of our healthy habits in the dust. Don’t worry! There are small steps you can take today and throughout the holiday season to stay joyful and stress-free. Let’s talk about some ways to reduce holiday stress, holiday habits to avoid, and how chiropractic care can keep you feeling your best.

Holiday Habits to Avoid and Keep

The holiday season is full of traditions that bring happiness but also some that impact your health. Recognizing a few habits to be conscious of can make a big difference in how you feel. Here are just a few.

• Skipping Meals Before a Feast – It may seem like a good idea to skip breakfast or lunch to save room for a big holiday dinner, but this can backfire. Overeating at one meal puts unnecessary stress on your digestive system and can leave you feeling sluggish. Eating balanced meals throughout the day helps stabilize your energy and keeps digestion smooth.

• Overloading Your Plate – (Literally and figuratively!) Juggling too many commitments, like holiday parties and hours-long shopping marathons, can lead to exhaustion. Instead of trying to do it all, focus on events and activities that bring you joy and allow you to balance your energy.

• Ignoring Restful Sleep – Late nights and early mornings are something we’ve all experienced during the holidays, but cutting back on sleep affects your mood, energy, and immune system. Protect your rest by sticking to a consistent bedtime whenever possible.

• Improperly Carrying Heavy Bags – It may not seem like a big deal, but hauling around heavy shopping bags and luggage can strain your back and shoulders. Use rolling luggage or carry bags evenly to avoid unnecessary pain or injury.

Small adjustments to your routine can prevent stress and discomfort from sneaking in, and steering clear of these habits  will help you to feel your best during the holidays.

Simple Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress

Staying calm and centered during the holidays doesn’t require giant changes. A few intentional steps can go a long way. Here are some that can keep you feeling grounded and at ease.

• Practice Deep Breathing – When you feel overwhelmed, take a few moments for deep breathing. A method like the 4-7-8 technique, inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 7, and exhaling for 8, can calm your nervous system.

• Stay Active – Even short bursts of physical activity can help clear your mind and lift your spirits. Take a brisk walk, stretch, or find time for a quick workout to release endorphins and boost your energy.

• Prioritize “Me Time” – Take moments for yourself. Read by the fire and sip your favorite tea. These small moments of self-care will recharge you for the holiday hustle.

Simple, intentional actions can make the season more joyful and fulfilling, plus taking time for stress-reducing practices helps create balance during the hustle. 

Managing Back Pain During the Holidays

Holiday activities like decorating, cooking, traveling, and long periods of sitting can leave your back feeling less than merry. Here are ways to keep your spine happy:

• Use Proper Lifting Techniques – When lifting gifts or luggage, bend at the knees, keep the item close to your body, and avoid twisting motions. This helps prevent strain on your lower back.

• Stretch Regularly – Simple stretches can release tension and keep your back mobile. Poses like cat-cow or child’s pose will work wonders after a long day.

• Mind Your Posture – Long dinners or road trips can cause slouching. Sit with your feet flat on the floor and use lumbar support to keep your back straight.

Paying attention to your back care during the holidays helps you stay comfortable and pain-free.

Benefits of Going to the Chiropractor

Chiropractic care provides natural, effective solutions to address holiday stress, discomfort, and even digestive issues. Here’s how it can help this time of year.

• Relief for Back Pain – Spinal adjustments realign the spine, reducing pressure on nerves and relieving pain. Regular care improves mobility and helps prevent future back problems.

• Stress Reduction – Chiropractic treatments support the nervous system to promote relaxation throughout the body. Massage therapy further reduces muscle tension and even improves circulation, helping you feel calm and refreshed.

• Digestive Support – Stress and holiday indulgences can upset your digestion. Misalignments in the spine may also affect nerve signals to the digestive system, leading to bloating or discomfort. Adjustments restore alignment so that your digestive system function improves.

• Encouraging Healthy Weight Management – Chiropractic care optimizes your body’s functions to also support your metabolism and energy levels. Pairing care with other healthy habits helps you stay feeling healthy, even during the season’s heavy meals.

Chiropractic care serves as a multi-pronged and non-invasive way to achieve optimal health. Depending on your health needs, your practitioner can tailor treatments to your symptoms and needs.

Choosing the Right Chiropractor For Me

Regular chiropractic care supports your body and mind during the holidays, helping you feel your best. It’s a natural way to address discomfort and reduce stress while keeping your health on track. It also offers a range of treatments. If you’re unsure where to start, here are some basics of what we offer.

• Spinal Adjustments – Best for pain relief, improving alignment, and addressing nerve-related issues.

• Massage Therapy – Great for reducing stress, relaxing tight muscles, and boosting circulation.

• Combination Treatments – Perfect for addressing both structural and muscular issues. Many patients find the combined approach offers the most comprehensive care.

These are just a few treatment options we have, on top of acupuncture and others. All work around the idea that the body, with its innate healing capabilities, and chiropractic care can work together to restore health, naturally.

The holidays don’t have to come at the expense of your health. Ready to feel your best this holiday season? Schedule an appointment with The Sentinel Health and Wellness Team today. Let’s get you back on the path to wellness.