A Realistic Guide to Mindful Holiday Indulgence
It’s time to embrace the joys of the festive season with braais under the sun, family feasts, and spontaneous beach trips. It’s the season of connection, celebration, and indulgence. But with all the joy comes that little voice in the back of your mind: “Am I overdoing it?”
The good news is that you can in fact have it all. The festive season is not about choosing between enjoying yourself and maintaining your well-being. It’s about finding harmony. This guide is your supportive companion, here to help you fully embrace the holidays while staying mindful and compassionate with yourself.
Let’s rewrite the holiday narrative, one moment of balance and self-care at a time.
The Real Impact of the Festive Season on Mind and Body
Mind
The holidays bring loads of good times, but they also come with emotional and social pressures. Between gift shopping, family commitments, and social gatherings, the season can feel overwhelming.
Clinical psychologist Dr Sahba Besharati explains that, “While the holidays are often portrayed as a joyful time, many people experience heightened stress and the pressure to maintain a happy façade. This can lead to burnout and feelings of guilt when expectations don’t align with reality.”
Social media can add fuel to the fire, with picture-perfect moments creating unrealistic comparisons. Wellness expert, Dr Michael Mol, shares, “It’s important to remember that what you see online is curated. Focusing on your own journey rather than comparisons can bring a sense of peace during this reflective season.”
And then there’s the guilt. Guilt over enjoying one too many mince pies or skipping a workout to chill at the poolside. This can spiral into negative self-talk, which lowers motivation and dampens holiday joy.
Body
On the physical side, the holiday treats we love often leave us feeling less than our best. Dietitian Celynn Morin notes, “The combination of high sugar and alcohol consumption can lead to mood swings, fatigue, and poor digestion. These effects can snowball into low energy and reduced physical activity.”
Sleep often takes a hit over the holidays too. Health scientist Tim Noakes explains that, “Excess alcohol and rich meals can interfere with sleep quality, leaving you feeling sluggish and unmotivated. Over time, this disrupts your body’s natural rhythm and adds to the stress.”
But don’t worry — these challenges don’t have to define your holidays.
Embracing Mindful Indulgence and Balance
The festive season isn’t the time to strive for perfection or beat yourself up over indulgence. Instead, it’s an opportunity to embrace self-care, mindfulness, and balance.
So What Exactly Is Mindful Indulgence?
Indulgence doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Wellness coach Vanessa Ascencao recommends that we, “enjoy the food and moments you love, but do it mindfully. Take your time, appreciate the flavours, and listen to your body. It’s about quality, not quantity.”
This approach lets you savour your favourite treats without the guilt or pressure to compensate later.
Practising Self-Compassion
Dr Michael Mol says, “The holidays are a time to celebrate connection, not a test of discipline. Be kind to yourself, and remember that it’s okay to step back from routines to fully enjoy the moment.”
Self-compassion is the foundation for a joyful and guilt-free holiday.
Your Holiday Survival Guide, Complete With Practical, Realistic Tips
Mindful, Joyful Eating
Choose foods that bring you joy, and eat slowly to savour the experience. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
‘Drink Water and Mind Your Business’
When you’re out partying, alternate alcoholic drinks with water to manage your intake and keep your body balanced.
Move in Small Ways
Don’t get hung up on the idea of long workouts, especially if that’ll help you be kinder to yourself. Instead, try weaving movement into your holiday fun. Play beach volleyball, take morning walks, or do a quick stretch before bed. Fitness influencer Kerry McGregor reminds us, “Every bit of movement helps boost energy and mood, even if it’s just 10 minutes.”
Prioritise Rest
Sleep is the unsung hero of holiday well-being. Create a calming nighttime routine by avoiding screens before bed and maybe even try some deep breathing exercises while you’re relaxing at the pool.
Let Go of Perfection
A little self-compassion goes a long way. If you have an indulgent day, focus on how you can feel better tomorrow instead of dwelling on guilt.
Mindful, Joyful Eating
Choose foods that bring you joy, and eat slowly to savour the experience. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
‘Drink Water and Mind Your Business’
When you’re out partying, alternate alcoholic drinks with water to manage your intake and keep your body balanced.
Move in Small Ways
Don’t get hung up on the idea of long workouts, especially if that’ll help you be kinder to yourself. Instead, try weaving movement into your holiday fun. Play beach volleyball, take morning walks, or do a quick stretch before bed. Fitness influencer Kerry McGregor reminds us, “Every bit of movement helps boost energy and mood, even if it’s just 10 minutes.”
Prioritise Rest
Sleep is the unsung hero of holiday well-being. Create a calming nighttime routine by avoiding screens before bed and maybe even try some deep breathing exercises while you’re relaxing at the pool.
Let Go of Perfection
A little self-compassion goes a long way. If you have an indulgent day, focus on how you can feel better tomorrow instead of dwelling on guilt.
Make Planet Fitness Your Holiday Haven
This season, Planet Fitness is here to support you through it all. Whether you want to burn off the stress with a quick workout or recharge with a calming yoga session, our doors are always open — no judgement, just good vibes.
Take a moment for yourself in our relaxation areas or pop into a group class. From spin sessions to Pilates or simply unwinding in the sauna, we’re here to help you find balance on your terms.
Remember: The festive season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your well-being or losing sight of your goals. By embracing mindful indulgence, self-compassion, and balance, you can enjoy everything the holidays have to offer while staying true to yourself. Let’s make this your most joyful and balanced holiday yet!
