The Holidays: How to Thrive, Not Just Survive

Perceptions are shaped by words. Attitudes influence intentions. Almost everything is shaped by our intentions.

I frequently consider the trope surviving the holidays at this time of year. How to get through Christmas parties, family get-togethers, and a busy season full of events and celebrations is a topic we frequently hear and read about.

And let’s face it, most of these survival manuals focus less on general health and more on what we should eat and drink over the holiday season. Or more and then less to balance out the “extra” you consumed throughout the holiday season. Keeping up is challenging.

This seems like a fairly harsh way to treat yourself, even putting aside the odd idea that survival involves food deprivation. Really, what are we surviving for?

What if we reversed the narrative?

Thrive during the Christmas season.

Eat good food that warms and fills you up to thrive.

Thrive by engaging in excellent exercises made possible by that fantastic meal.

Hell, after a wonderful lunch or night out, survive through a protracted winter’s slumber.

What if we let the activities we enjoy—getting together with friends and family, eating healthfully, moving about freely, and taking appropriate breaks—get us through this holiday season?

What if we prospered?