1 minute tip: Indulge in the time-honored tradition of kissing under the mistletoe! Smooching a loved one is fun – and it can help reduce blood pressure, relieve headaches, ease menstrual cramps and more!
5 minute tip: At a party? Fill your plate then move away from the buffet. Remember you came to spend time with family and friends, so put the focus on connecting with them. Hanging out near the buffet or food tables only invites mindless nibbling that distracts from enjoying the company of others.
15 minute tip: Keep leftovers safe. You can safely enjoy the remains of your holiday dinner for several days if you follow a few precautions: refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking, and reheat thoroughly (check temperature with a thermometer to be sure) before consuming. Discard any remaining leftovers after 3-4 days.
30 minute tip: Sit down to eat. No matter how busy you are, try not to eat on the run. Take time to sit at a table and enjoy your food at a slower pace – preferably without multitasking! Listen to music or just focus on eating mindfully. It’s the break your body needs for better digestion and better mental health!
This article appeared in the December 2023 edition of the HealthPerks newsletter.
