4 Mini Challenges for a Healthy Holiday Season

A Mini Challenge is a small achievable action that supports your overall health and wellbeing. This winter, see if you can accomplish the four Mini Challenges below – one for each week of the month.

We wish you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season!

Week One: Invite more laughter into your life.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, cleaning up after one, or en route to your next gathering, you might try listening to a comedy radio station or podcast, or playing a funny TV show or movie in the background. A good belly laugh not only improves circulation, it can help you enjoy and experience the moment.

Week Two: Watch the sunrise (or sunset).

Day-to-day life can be fast-paced, especially during the holidays. But, when we make an effort to enjoy the little things, life doesn’t seem so rushed. Even if you’re in traffic, enjoying the sunrise through the car window can help start your day off on the right path. Or, taking a few moments to view the sunset at the end of the day can serve as a time for reflection to help you process the day’s happenings and future memories.

Week Three: Give thanks.

Gratitude is powerful. When you are truly grateful in the moment, it’s more difficult to feel fear, stress, anxiety, or any of those negative emotions that keep us from reaching our potential or living in the moment – which is especially important this time of year. Try tuning in to gratitude at your holiday mealtime. Have each person say what they are grateful for before they eat – have them think about something, someone, some place or a sense (smell, sight, touch) they are grateful for. The responses may inspire you!

Week Four: Celebrate with conversation. Practice being an interested observer today.

The holidays often mean you’ll be with friends and family who you might not see regularly. Step back to watch what’s going on, observe people’s reactions and listen to what they say. Let someone know you are paying close attention through eye contact, body language and occasional verbal feedback. At the end of the day, you might also spend a few minutes discussing deeper or more personal subjects to stay connected with your partner.