Getting back into a healthy routines after Christmas

Establishing healthy routines

Once the Christmas holidays are over, there can be a tendency to beat ourselves up and to push to be in better shape both physically and mentally than we were before the party season.

Whilst having goals can be beneficial, simply getting back into normal healthy routines can be a challenge – everything can seem a little dreary after all the excitement and we can be left with the feeling that all we have to look forward to is three months of cold and wet weather, with the prospect of sun and holidays a long way away.

Here is our list of the top 10 things to do to help minimise the January blues and get back into a positive healthy routine.

1. Go easy on yourself – remember there is no rush and just because it’s the start of a new year, it doesn’t mean that everything has to change or be perfect – try not to succumb to the ‘new you’ pressure.
2. Take your time – build the exercise up slowly, add in one extra vegetable and/or piece of fruit each day and take some time each day to tune into yourself, how you are feeling and what you need.
3. Re-establish bedtime and prioritise sleep time – if you have been burning the candle over the Christmas period, move bedtime earlier and reintroduce a healthy sleep routine – a dark room, a night-time bath, some lavender oil sprayed on your pillow, reading a book, turning off electronics at least an hour before bedtime, a relaxing cup of camomile tea before bed.
4. Re-set your morning routine – the return of the early starts can hit us hard, but being prepared can help. And taking 5-10 minutes to relax and get into a positive mindset in the morning can help to make the whole day better – whether this involves stretching, meditating, a slow cup of tea or coffee or even an extra few minutes in the shower focusing on the feeling of the water and tuning in to how you are feeling that day.
5. Stay hydrated – our brain and body need water to stay healthy. Drink a glass of water when you get up in the morning and use that refillable water bottle to monitor how much you are drinking each day.
6. Make time for fun – this time of year can feel anything but fun, so plan a little fun each day and something that you particularly enjoy at least once a week. Take a bath with Epsom salts and essential oils, light some candles, go for a walk, turn the music up and dance in the kitchen, meet a friend for coffee, go to the cinema, video call a friend or family member who is overseas…the ideas are endless – make a list and make it happen.
7. Listen to your body – do you feel like exercising? Or would you prefer a bath? Or maybe a walk in the rain, some stretching, a few yoga moves, or even just lying on the sofa watching a film? How does your body feel and what does it need?
8. Breath – take short breaks throughout the day to breath in deeply and exhale fully 3-5 times. Breathing deeply into your belly helps to relieve tension and promote relaxation. Set the alarm on your phone to go off once an hour to remind you to do this regularly.
9. Remember your supplements – this part of your routine may also have taken a hit over the Christmas period and now’s the time to re-assess any supplementary support you may need – friendly bacteria, vitamins, omega 3 oils, minerals or other nutrients.
10. Remember – whatever you are feeling is OK.

Related blogs on establishing healthy routines:

Powerful Daily Routine Examples for a Healthy and High-Achieving You

Wellness Tips For A Healthy Routine From Morning To Night

Healthy Christmas food alternatives to support a healthy gut

What healthy poop looks like?

Want to know more?

Pro-Ven Probiotics aim to provide the best support for both you and your health. If you wish to know more about gut health and establishing healthy routines please do not hesitate to call us on 01639 825107 or alternatively, learn more via our blogs or in-depth proven research.

ProVen Probiotics, Unit 2 Christchurch Road, Baglan Industrial Park, Port Talbot, SA12 7DJ. Tel: 01639 825107