The food we put into our bodies and the thoughts we experience each day have a direct influence on how well our body functions and how we feel mentally. Therefore, it is just as important to keep an eye on our emotional health as well as our physical health during the festive season.

Christmas is commonly associated with indulgence, whether it be excessive food, plenty of drinks, or the tempting Boxing Day sales. We are surrounded by messages from retailers telling us to buy more, eat more, and spend more, as though your happiness this Christmas depends on it. With a recession in full swing this year and the cost of living soaring, it is the perfect time now to reflect on how you choose to celebrate the festive season and if there are any aspects of it that need to change. Ask yourself the following questions:

Am I doing things simply because they have always been done that way? Am I buying things just because I feel that I should? Am I pushing myself to financial limits because of pressures I'm imposing on myself? Am I visiting family or friends that don't make me feel good about myself because I feel that I have to?

These are deep questions to ask ourselves and they can come with a lot of baggage, but it is important to our health that we do. So many of us spend our time and energy trying to please others without thinking about how it affects our own wellbeing. Worry and stress from financial, family or health concerns can cause the body to remain in a constant state of 'fight or flight', even if all seems well on the surface. Blood pressure can go up, the heart rate sits a little higher than it should, sleep can be negatively affected, and we may become irritable with people around us. To cope with these pressures, it is then easier to reach for things which give temporary pleasure: sugary, fatty snacks, cigarettes, alcohol, spending sprees, and so on.

With this in mind, here is some food for thought this Christmas:

En-JOY the Food!
Regardless of what food you eat this Christmas, prepare it with love and joy. Whether its chicken nuggets and chips or a roast dinner, focus on enjoying the moment. Put on some Christmas music, pull out a nice outfit from the back of the wardrobe and get into the spirit of Christmas. Don't feel pressure to buy the turkey with all the trimmings if it doesn't work for you or your family. Why not try something different this year? Give yourself permission to enjoy the food you eat on this day free from guilt or shame.

Rest and Digest
Once I open a box of chocolate, it's all or nothing! If you're anything like me and are planning to eat a lot over the Christmas period, give your body time to rest and digest between meals and leave a space between eating in the evening and going to bed. Eating rich foods close to bedtime can trigger heartburn and acid reflux, with symptoms lingering for days afterwards. Consider starting the day with some warm water (and lemon if you have it) to kickstart your digestion before breakfast or tea/coffee.

Pause Before You Buy
Before you add another item to your trolley or online basket, ask yourself if it is a necessity, an investment for the future, or an indulgence. What is driving your decision to buy the item, and will you regret it after? Take back your power when making purchases this Christmas and beware of the marketing messages designed to make you click 'Buy'.

Awareness of Others
As a closing thought, Christmas this year may be a time of joy and celebration for some, but a time of sadness, loneliness and change for others, particularly with the events of the last two years. Check in on your friends and colleagues and be mindful of other's circumstances. Being open and honest about our situations will make it easier to support each other and support the true spirit of Christmas.

FUN FACT: Brussel Sprouts
Brussel sprouts are a mighty little vegetable that are packed with calcium and antioxidants. They can help to lower glucose levels and increase insulin sensitivity in those with diabetes. If Brussel sprouts are making an appearance on your Christmas table this year, try roasting them with a little olive oil and salt to keep as many nutrients in as possible. See if you can buy them on the stalk this year for fresher sprouts.

Author: Rachel Alexander - Holistic Health Coach at Mind.Body.Wisdom