5 simple tips to stay balanced during the holidays
Photo by Edward Howell on Unsplash
The holiday season is just around the corner, and while it's intended to be a time of joy and connection, it has a way of sneaking in some stress, overwhelm, and maybe a little holiday chaos.
The good news? Staying balanced doesn’t mean missing out on the festive fun. With a few intentional shifts, you can enjoy the season while feeling nourished, rejuvenated, and grounded — so you can truly enjoy the season (and not feel like you’re starting from scratch when January rolls around).
Here are 5 simple tips to stay balanced during the holidays:
Pick one or two that resonate with you, and notice how small changes can make a big difference in how you feel this season.
1. Make protein the star player of your meals.
Protein is the MVP of balanced nutrition, especially during the holidays when indulgent treats and carb-heavy dishes are abundant. Building your meals around protein helps:
Balance blood sugar
Keep energy steady
Prevent post-meal crashes
For breakfast, try eggs, Greek yogurt, or a protein smoothie. At lunch or dinner, opt for poultry, fish, legumes, or tofu. Making protein the focus of your plate helps you stay energized and satisfied throughout the day.
2. Take a walk after meals.
A short walk — just 10 minutes — is such a simple way to improve digestion, regulate blood sugar, and clear your mind. It’s a quick reset that works wonders, especially after big holiday meals.
3. Slow down and savor your food.
It’s easy to rush through meals when the table is piled with delicious dishes, but slowing down makes a big difference.
Chewing thoroughly improves digestion.
Savoring each bite allows you to truly enjoy the flavors of the season.
Eating mindfully helps you tune in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
This practice not only supports your health but also deepens your appreciation for the food and the people you’re sharing it with.
4. Set boundaries with grace.
The holidays can feel full of invitations and obligations, but it’s okay to say “no” to protect your energy. When you honor your needs, you can show up fully for the things that matter most.
5. Incorporate a practice to support your nervous system.
Holiday busyness can leave us feeling overstimulated. A simple practice like deep breathing, meditation, or EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) can help you reset and find calm. If you’re new to EFT, it’s a powerful technique that uses gentle tapping on acupressure points to help regulate stress and cultivate a sense of peace.
Enjoy the Season with Balance and Joy
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration — and with a few intentional practices, you can keep that at the heart of your experience.
Wishing you a calm and joyful holiday season! Which of these tips will you try this year? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear how you’re staying balanced this season.
This information is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool for your own use. I am not providing medical, psychological, or nutrition therapy advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your own medical practitioner. Always seek the advice of your own medical practitioner and/or mental health provider about your specific health situation. For my full Disclaimer, please visit www.alisonkeiper.com/disclaimer.