The holiday season is often depicted as a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it brings a unique set of stressors. From the pressures of gift-giving and party planning to managing family dynamics and potential feelings of loneliness, the holidays can take a toll on both your physical and mental well-being.

 Understanding and addressing stress during this time can transform your holidays and set you on a positive path for the New Year.

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a whirlwind of parties, delicious food, and tempting treats. While we love time spent celebrating with friends, co-workers, and loved ones, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and worried that your health goals are about to go out the window. The good news? With a little strategy, you can savor the festivities without compromising your well-being or derailing your progress. Here’s how:

Beginning with the end in mind means determining now how you want to feel and what you want to look like in January. If you find yourself getting stuck thinking about what you WANT, determine what you DON’T want, and move forward from there.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner! If you’re like me, you’re probably juggling grocery lists, house cleaning, and finalizing plans for the big day. Maybe you’re even mentally preparing to spend time with those more challenging family members or friends—or already fast-forwarding to Christmas planning (why does Thanksgiving feel so late this year, anyway?).

And… breathe.

While the holiday hustle can feel overwhelming, Thanksgiving also presents a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and express gratitude—even if it’s just for five minutes. Practicing thankfulness isn’t just a feel-good notion; it’s also scientifically proven to benefit your health.