‘Tis the season to be jolly… right? Well, there’s absolutely nothing jolly about feeling unhealthy, uncomfortable and in pain over the holidays.

During a time of seemingly non-stop hustle and bustle, it can be easy to let your wellness fall to the wayside when you actually need it most.

So, while you’re in the gift giving mood, why not give yourself the gift of wellness during the holiday season? Aside from keeping your regular wellness appointments (including chiropractic, acupuncture and massage therapy), little things can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your body and mind feeling strong and healthy.

To help you with this, we’ve come up with our very own 12 Days of Wellness list to help prepare for whatever the holidays throw your way! Check them out below:

Day 1. Drink 12 cups of water

When we’re busy – especially during the holiday season – one of the first things to be forgotten is our own hydration. Don’t let it happen! Drinking water is important for your digestion, your immune system and your energy – all of which you’re going to need in the upcoming weeks!

Day 2. Complete a random act of kindness

Today is all about spreading joy! Whether it’s buying someone else’s coffee, paying a compliment to someone you don’t know, or simply going out of your way to do something nice for someone, completing a random act of kindness feels good for everyone involved. So, enjoy!

Day 3. Clean or organize a space you’ve been neglecting

Let’s be honest. Cleaning is often one of the first things to go during the busy holiday season. So today, set aside 30 minutes of your day to focus on one of your favourite spaces. It’s amazing how this will really have an impact on your mind.

Day 4. Step away from the screen!

That’s right – today, rest your eyes (and your mind) by limiting your screen time. Instead of watching tv or catching up on the day’s activities on your phone, try putting it all away two hours before you go to bed. Your mind will thank you!

Day 5. Take the time to reach out to someone you haven’t in a while

The holidays are the perfect excuse to reach out to your loved ones and let them know you care. Today, take a break from your regular routine to reach out to someone you may have lost touch with over the year. It’ll brighten both of your days!

Day 6. Wake up 30 minutes early to stretch, breathe and be thankful

Nothing compares to the first 30 minutes of peace and quiet before the rest of the world joins you. Today, take this time to stretch, breathe and be thankful. This can come in the form of yoga or meditation. Both will help you start the day focused, centred and ready to take on the day.

Day 7. Donate food to your local food bank

During a time known for family meals, turkey dinners and egg nog, it’s important to remember that for some, these opportunities are few and far between. Today, take a few minutes to drop off some festive items to your local food bank. Knowing that you went out of your way to help someone else will boost your wellness as well.

Day 8. Take a family hike

There’s a reason why they call it the most wonderful time of the year. Have you looked outside lately?! So, go and enjoy it with those you love most!

Day 9. Do 10 squats every time you stand up from your desk

This one seems easy. But by the end of the day, your glutes and legs will be feeling the burn… in a great way!

Day 10. Enjoy two hours of “me time”

Today is your chance to enjoy whatever you’d like! Read a book, go to the gym, do some yoga, meditate, take a bath… whatever you’d like. Your deserve it!

Day 11. Catch up on some sleep

Sleep is so important for our physical and mental health. And when we’re busy, it’s usually something we compromise for other activities. So whether you have to force yourself to go to bed early, or you have the luxury of staying in bed a little later – make catching up on sleep your priority today. Afterall, there are only a few nights left until Santa comes to visit!

Day 12. Eat two servings of fruit and three servings of veggies

You know what they say: everything in moderation! Today, balance out those cookies and candy canes with some nutrients by adding plenty of colourful fruits and veggies (especially dark, green, leafy ones). Your body (and mind) will thank you!

Above all else, have a safe, happy and healthy holiday season! We’ll see you back in the clinic on December 27 for your regular wellness appointments.

Love your friends at Sound Chiropractic & Health Sciences Centre