Go Visiting, Spend Time with Family, Relax and Enjoy the Holiday – More Positive Emotions and Less Food, Advises Ekaterina Cherkasskaya
The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, indulging in delicious food, and creating cherished memories. However, for many people, this time of year can also bring stress, overeating, and guilt. That’s why Ekaterina Cherkasskaya, a well-known wellness coach and nutrition expert, suggests a different approach to celebrating the holidays – one that focuses on positive emotions and mindful eating.
Cherkasskaya believes that the key to a happy and healthy holiday season is to prioritize spending time with family and friends. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and neglect the important relationships in our lives. The holidays provide the perfect opportunity to slow down, disconnect from technology, and reconnect with our loved ones. Whether it’s a big family gathering or a small intimate dinner, the time spent with family and friends is what truly matters.
But what about all the delicious food that comes with the holidays? Cherkasskaya’s advice is to enjoy it, but in moderation. She encourages people to listen to their bodies and eat mindfully. This means paying attention to hunger and fullness cues, eating slowly, and savoring each bite. By doing so, we can fully enjoy the flavors and textures of our favorite holiday dishes without overindulging.
Cherkasskaya also suggests incorporating physical activity into holiday celebrations. This can be as simple as taking a walk after a big meal or playing a game of football with the family. Not only does this help burn off some of the extra calories, but it also promotes bonding and creates fun memories.
In addition to spending time with loved ones and being mindful of our eating, Cherkasskaya emphasizes the importance of self-care during the holidays. This can include activities such as meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few moments to relax and recharge. By taking care of ourselves, we can better manage stress and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.
Cherkasskaya’s advice is backed by scientific research. Studies have shown that positive emotions have numerous health benefits, including improved immune function, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of heart disease. On the other hand, stress and negative emotions have been linked to overeating and weight gain. By prioritizing positive emotions and reducing stress, we can not only enjoy the holidays more, but also improve our overall health and well-being.
Of course, it’s important to acknowledge that the holiday season can also be a difficult time for some people. For those who have lost loved ones or are struggling with personal challenges, the holidays may not be as joyful. Cherkasskaya’s advice in these situations is to reach out for support and to focus on self-care. This can include talking to a trusted friend or family member, seeking professional help if needed, and finding ways to cope with difficult emotions.
In conclusion, Ekaterina Cherkasskaya’s advice for the holiday season is simple – go visiting, spend time with family, relax, and enjoy the holiday. By prioritizing positive emotions, mindful eating, and self-care, we can create a holiday season that is not only enjoyable but also beneficial for our health. So this year, let’s focus on making memories and cherishing our loved ones, rather than stressing over food and weight. Happy holidays!
