“Navigating the Holidays: A Guide to Being a Calmer and Happier Mom”

Hi and Welcome, 

As we dive into the festive season, I wanted to take a moment to connect with you on a more personal level. I’m Sarah Smiddy-Saunders, Founder and Co-owner of 321 Wellness, and like many of you, I wear multiple hats – a mom, an entrepreneur, part-time house demo/designer [just ask my husband] ???? and a health enthusiast. Hangout with me here to catch up the latest along with tips and tricks for your health and wellness journey!

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The holiday hustle is upon us, I understand the unique challenges we face in maintaining a healthy lifestyle while juggling the demands of our busy schedules.
– I’m excited to share some practical strategies, and tough love that has helped me and others not only survive, but truly thrive during the holidays. 

It’s a whole body approach encompassing nutrition, fitness, and sleep – the 3 pillars of well-being that often take a back seat during this joyous, yet hectic time. Want my 30 Minute Dinner and Grocery List Template? Drop your information below:

So, grab a cup of your favorite beverage, and let’s navigate together with focusing on health, balance, and the joy that each season of life brings.

The holiday season is a joyous time filled with love, laughter, and family gatherings. However, for many moms juggling the responsibilities of work, parenting, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it can also be a source of stress and frustration. I’m going to give 6 Practical Tips to help you navigate the holiday season with grace, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable time for both you and your family.

  1. Fuel Your Body with Nutrient-Rich Choices:
  • During the holiday feasts and tempting treats, make a conscious effort to include nutrient-rich foods in your diet. Opt for proteins first, then colorful vegetables, and then whole grains. A great tool is using the size of your hand to estimate appropriate serving sizes for different food groups. [Protein – size of Palm, Veggies – size of Fist, Carbohydrates – size of Cupped Hand and Fats – size of Thumb] By nourishing your body with the right fuel, you’ll have the energy needed to tackle both the festive and everyday demands.

2. Quick and Effective Holiday Workouts:

  • Recognizing that time is a precious commodity during the holidays, focus on short and effective workout routines. Prioritize scheduling in your group class sessions or quick home workouts can be squeezed into even the busiest schedules. These bursts of activity will not only keep you fit but also serve as a powerful stress-reliever.

3. Prioritize Sleep for Well-Being:

  • Quality sleep is a cornerstone of overall health and well-being. Despite the holiday rush, make a commitment to prioritize your sleep. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure your sleeping environment is conducive to rest. Quality sleep will contribute to better mood, increased energy, and improved resilience.

4. Incorporate Family-Friendly Fitness:

  • Involve your family in fitness activities. Whether it’s a family walk, a friendly game, or a dance party, find ways to stay active together. Not only does this promote physical health, but it also creates bonding moments with your loved ones.

5. Practice Mindful Parenting:

  • Be present in the moment and savor the time spent with your family. Put away distractions, such as phones or work-related concerns, and fully engage in the holiday activities. Mindful parenting allows you to connect more deeply with your children and create lasting memories.

6. Embrace the Power of “No”:

  • Learn to say “no” when needed. It’s okay to decline invitations or skip certain events if it means preserving your sanity. Overcommitting can lead to burnout, so prioritize the events and activities that truly matter to you and your family.

With all the hats I wear, finding balance during the holiday season is key to enjoying this special time of year. By prioritizing your nutrition, movement, sleep – all while setting realistic expectations, practicing mindful parenting, and embracing the power of “no”, you can navigate the holidays with less stress and frustration. Remember, the most important thing is to cherish the moments with your loved ones and create lasting memories that will be treasured for years to come.

PLEASE NOTE: This information is not meant to be medical advice, this is educational and how I approach this in my home. Please see your healthcare provider before changing anything or adding any supplements to your routine.