Ready, Set, December

The end of the year is fast approaching, and in these busy times it’s easy for our good routines to get swept away in the madness. But when your mind is occupied with wrapping up work and the impending holidays, a full health overhaul is really the last thing you need. Instead, why not focus on nurturing small, manageable habits, so you can head into December knowing you've set yourself up for a positive holiday season.

Here’s some easy tips to get the ball rolling.

For your mind:

• Protect your time and energy. November and December are notoriously busy months, and it’s okay to say no to social events and activities. Make sure you’re taking time out to rest and prepare for the week ahead, so you’re not constantly on the back foot.
• Resist the screen. When you’re tired, it’s easy to catch yourself scrolling away your free time. Put the phone away half an hour before bed, so you can catch up on reading or enjoy some mindful breathing or meditation.
• Get it out of your head and into a list. This time of year it’s easy to get frazzled with all the things you need to organise. Download your to-do’s onto paper so you can keep track of it all – and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with crossing things off!

For your body:

• Focus on having smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Think regular snacks made from healthy whole foods – like berries with yoghurt, crackers and cheese or dark chocolate. If you need more inspiration, you can read our guide to the art of snacking here. 
• Lots of water! When you're on the go, stay hydrated with a water bottle on hand. The benefits are endless (and your skin will thank you for it).
• Pack in the fruit and veg. Curb your sweet cravings with fruit or pre-cut veggies and load your main meals up with plenty of good greens.

For your soul:

• The lead up to the holidays can be a hard time for many people. If you can, check in with friends and family who might be needing a bit of extra support, or consider making a donation to those less fortunate than you are.
• Where possible, escape the house or office for a bit of time outdoors. Even a thirty minute walk can go a long way to filling up your nature cup!
• Congratulate yourself! You’ve (nearly) made it through one seriously challenging year. Take a moment to reflect on where you’ve been, how you’ve grown and where you’re heading next. And if self-care means treating yourself to a glass of bubbles and putting your feet up, do exactly that. Unwind in a way that feels good for you.