Looking after your health this holiday season
Here in New Zealand, we fit a lot into the holiday season. Not only do Christmas and New Year come in quick succession, but summer is at its height, kids are home from school, most people take time off work, and many leave town for the beach.
It’s meant to be about fun and relaxation, but all that pressure, stress, and indulgence can take a toll on your body and mind.
Here’s how to stay on top of your health this holiday season.
Keep moving
Holiday events and time away from home can often lead you to neglect your fitness. Stay active over the holidays by setting fitness goals – you could aim to walk 10,000 steps every day, or sign up for a 10km walk in January to keep you motivated. You can also fit exercise into your holiday activities – walk to the shops instead of driving, suggest a game in the garden after your Christmas lunch, and make a point of walking or swimming every evening.
Eat, drink, and be healthy
Food and drink are a big part of the holiday season. Christmas ham, sausages on the barbie, trifle and pav, beer and bubbles at holiday parties – it’s all delicious, but not exactly healthy. You don’t have to abstain altogether, but it’s a good idea to think before you eat and drink. Fill up on healthier options like veggie platters and salads before ham and dessert, drink water between alcoholic beverages, and try not to linger around the snack table.
Keep your routine regular
With parties, trips away, and time off work, it’s easy to slip out of your usual routine during the holidays. But the more you can stick to it, the better for your mental and physical health. Go to bed at your usual time when you can, try to maintain your regular diet when you’re not at social events, and keep your fitness regime up as much as possible. And don’t forget regular medications or health treatments. The closer you are to your year-round routine, the healthier you will be.
Take care of yourself
Shopping, social events, travelling or looking after kids – the holidays can be stressful and exhausting. If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, make time for yourself. That might mean skipping a social event and watching a movie, taking a long bath or a long walk, or getting a pedicure or massage. Self-care is important for your mental health, even if you’re busy – in fact, especially when you’re busy.
Stay on track with ZOOM Pharmacy
ZOOM Pharmacy can’t help you turn down that second piece of Christmas cake or make you go for a run, but it can help you stay on track with your medicines over the holidays. It offers a streamlined delivery service, so you get the medication you need without having to visit a pharmacy.
On four meds or more? Ask ZOOM about their free state-of-the-art sachet pack offer, it’s perfect any time but especially when you’re travelling.
Send your prescription to ZOOM and they’ll deliver your medication by courier, promptly and discretely, wherever you are in New Zealand. If you’re on holiday at the beach, just change your delivery address and your medication will be with you in a couple of days. Then, if you have any questions, you can call one of Zoom’s NZ-trained pharmacists – no need to leave the bach! It’s just another way to take care of your health this holiday season.
Ready to go? Visit zoompharmacy.co.nz to find out more