Holiday Wellness Guide with Dr. Erin Pollinger
There really is magic in the air this time of year. Yet, with holiday shopping and traveling, the abundance of tasty treats and drinks, family get-togethers, and each festive tradition in between—this time of year can be taxing on the mind and body.
As the heart of the holidays is upon us, we spoke with PMB Black Diamond Affiliate and Health & Life Coach, Dr. Erin Pollinger, about tips and suggestions for staying holiday healthy.
Practice Self-Care
Don’t forget about YOU as the holiday season whisks you in one direction and then another. One of the best gifts you can give yourself is the joy of self-care. Take the time to tap into those practices and habits that keep you grounded and calm. “Obviously taking our hemp oil should be on everyone’s self-care list. Enjoy a massage, meditate, pray—really it’s about resonating with a way that helps you focus on something bigger than yourself.”
On taking some much needed “me-time” during the holidays, Dr. Pollinger adds, “Time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes here or there, helps you get back into your juice and energy. Fuel or recharge, so that you can bring your best self and best energy to whoever you’re around.”
Give Your Most Valuable Gifts
In our contemporary society—where bigger, flashier, or the more high-tech the better—it’s easy to overlook the greatest gift we can share with others during the holidays. Our best selves. Dr. Pollinger says,
“There’s something beautiful about giving our gifts. Tap into the unique gifts you have to give. Is it through humor, compassion, wisdom, being a good listener? We all have our gifts and when we share those we can be a source of light for our world and everybody we’re around.”
Move Your Energy
The holidays are not typically conducive for staying on track with workout or fitness regimens. You may find yourself out of town, always on-the-go, or wrapped up in obligations galore. Still, finding time to stay active will help brighten your holiday season and keep you physically and emotionally balanced.
From slow flow yoga to high-intensity cardio or weight training, whatever your activity of choice may be, plan ahead and schedule some time to move your energy. Building up a sweat will also aid in the removal of some of those icky toxins that can build up during the holidays.
Dr. Pollinger also suggests taking time to get out and into nature. “Even going outside for 10 minutes in the cold can do wonders for the body and spirit. Connecting with nature is always great.”
Sleep Is Essential
The holidays are a time for re-connecting, trading laughs and stories, and sharing the magic of the season with those that mean the most to us. They can also be exhausting. When the body is deprived of adequate sleep, we become more sensitive to external stressors—leading to added anxiety, poor digestion, immune deficiencies, and general malaise. To maintain optimal levels of zesty health and energy, do your best not to spread yourself to thin and stick to as normal of sleep schedule as you can.
Perpetuate Closeness (even with those that may drive you a little coo coo)
Sometimes those around us can be a source of added holiday stress. If you know you’ll be with family members, friends, or co-workers that work up your stress levels this holiday season, remember to take a moment and some space to regroup and find your inner healing energy when a stressful situation or conversation arises.
Dr. Pollinger suggests having the courage and willingness to say what you need to say with the intention of creating closeness or resolution. “I think it’s beautiful for people to use the conflict so-to-speak or stressful situation as an opportunity to heal and grow, especially during the holiday season.” She advises opening the channels of communication using an “appreciation sandwich”. “You always want to start with an appreciation and end with an appreciation. Then, in-between, you state objectively the observation—the indisputable observation. Then follow up and express what you are needing and an appropriate, constructive request,” adds Pollinger.
Indulge Selectively
During the holidays, one of the tastiest traps many people fall into at parties and get-togethers—or even in the comfort of their homes—is over-indulging simply because food is around. As Dr. Pollinger says, “When you overindulge it zaps your energy and zest. You can’t give yourself as well when you’re not radiating, and that happens when you eat too many sugary or high-fat foods.”
A few suggestions for tempering the craving to overindulge include:
• Staying hydrated
• Having a light, healthy snack before a party or gathering
• Eating smaller portions more frequently
• Avoiding eating on-the-go
• Limiting alcohol consumption
Of course, you’re not supposed to be perfect. Those holiday treats are meant to be enjoyed. A post-holiday detox is a sure-fire way to get your body and mind back on track before or after the New Year. For info on our Ultimate Detox System click here.
Slow Down & Appreciate The Season
Dr. Pollinger has a simple tip when it comes to appreciating the holiday season. “Slow down and remember that this is a time of being together with those that you love. Stop rushing and just BE with people.”
