In this series, Ask IIN, we round up the most pressing health and wellness questions ‒ from food and exercise to relationships and career ‒ from real people, just like you! Then select Integrative Nutrition Health Coaches and wellness experts will answer these questions so that you can feel empowered to live your healthiest, happiest life.

Keeping Up with Your Health Routine During the Holidays

In this edition of Ask IIN, we asked how our graduates and Health Coaches are staying on track with their wellness routines during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. From happy hours and gatherings to traveling to see family, eating well, prioritizing exercise, and finding time for self-care can be a challenge. Learn how these Health Coaches are taking advantage of this joyous time to create space for wellness.

Elisa Reynoso, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and Personal Trainer

Following a self-care regimen full of good intentions that create positivity energy in my lifestyle, especially around the holidays, helps me stay well. I start my day by sticking to my morning routine, which consists of prayer and morning tea with my husband. This routine happens every day, no matter if it’s a weekend day, weekday, or holiday!

Whether it’s something as simple as a walk in the park, time with family, or a colorful açaí bowl, finding time to unwind and take a break from the business of our day helps keep us grounded, especially during the holidays.

Instagram: @elisaayalaa

Elise Museles, Certified Eating Psychology and Nutrition Expert

The holiday season is an amazing opportunity to be with family and friends, but it can also be challenging to keep up with my usual routine. So often, I’m tempted to say yes to all the invitations and to go everywhere and to do everything. If I’m not careful, this time of the year can quickly become overwhelming and create stress that ends up making me feel depleted instead of nourished.

That’s why, to keep myself feeling good, I build in time throughout the day to do quick mood boosters that give me the opportunity to reconnect with myself. They can be anything from going for a walk, taking a few deep breaths or cooking a nostalgic meal to cuddling with my dogs or even dancing to an upbeat song in my kitchen! As simple as these activities seem, they keep me energized, rejuvenated, and relaxed.

Website: elisemuseles.com

Instagram: @elisemuseles

New book: Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live

Carlee Nussbaum, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach

To stay well during this holiday season, I’m making an effort to be consistent with my morning, day, and nighttime routines. I am focusing on what makes my body and mind feel good, which includes:

• Eating balanced meals
• Journaling
• Meditation
• Staying hydrated
• Working out

It’s easy to get caught up in all the dinners and socializing and forget to take care of yourself. Holiday season is also a time when things can get very stressful, so doing the five things above are important for managing my stress and feeling good.

Some days might put you off schedule during the holidays, but you can always make time to do something for your well-being. Nothing is perfect, but staying consistent is the best you can do. Life is short ‒ enjoy the laughs and all the delicious foods with family and friends but also continue to care for your body and mind by fueling them in the right way.

Website: clarifywellness.com