How stay energised & balanced during the Festive period (without “starting again” in January)
December is one of those months where everything ramps up - work, social plans, late nights, cold weather, festive food, alcohol… and at the same time, your routine often slides.
It’s completely normal. Although, what most people don’t realise is this: you don’t need a “perfect” routine to feel good in December - you just need a supportive one.
Here are simple, realistic habits to help you stay energised, reduce bloating and feel more balanced as the year wraps up.
1. Start the day with a stabilising breakfast
Not a “light” breakfast - a supportive one.
High-protein breakfasts (20–30g protein) help stabilise blood sugar, reduce cravings, support muscle tone and prevent that 3 pm crash.
Easy options:
Greek yoghurt + berries + seeds
Scrambled eggs + spinach + wholegrain toast
Protein smoothie
Tofu scramble
Your morning sets the tone - literally.
2. Don’t skip meals (even on busy days)
December is chaotic. Meetings run over. You shop after work. Drinks last longer than expected.
When meals get skipped, energy tanks… and cravings skyrocket.
Aim for balanced meals every 3–4 hours:
✔ protein
✔ colour (veg/fruit)
✔ smart carbs
✔ healthy fats
You’ll feel calmer, more energised, and more in control.
3. Support your digestion during heavier meals
Your digestion works harder in December - richer foods, less fibre, more alcohol, eating at irregular times.
Little tweaks help a lot:
Add colour (veg or fruit) to every meal
Drink water before meals
Add a walk after eating
Include fermented foods (yoghurt, kimchi, sauerkraut)
Add ginger, lemon or peppermint tea after meals
This reduces bloating and sluggishness without needing to restrict anything.
4. Keep alcohol simple
You don’t need to avoid alcohol completely - just be strategic.
Try the 2:1 rule:
For every 2 alcoholic drinks, have 1 water.
And stick to lighter options if you want to feel fresher the next day:
Spirits + soda
Red wine
Prosecco
Your sleep + energy will thank you.
5. Keep moving - but don’t panic if your routine shifts
You don’t need to train more in December.
You don’t need to “burn off” anything you eat.
You don’t need to “make up for” missed sessions.
Just keep moving consistently - short sessions count.
Aim for:
Additional walking on busy days
Stretching/mobility on low-energy days
Movement keeps your mood steady and helps digestion, stress and sleep.
6. Prioritise sleep (it’s the secret weapon)
When sleep drops, hunger increases, cravings spike, mood dips and recovery slows.
Try:
Warm shower before bed
Switch off screens 30–60 mins before sleep
Magnesium glycinate
Herbal tea (chamomile, lemon balm)
Sleep supports everything.
December isn’t the time for perfection.
It’s the time for gentle structure that keeps you feeling good while still enjoying your life.
Small consistent choices now = a calmer, fresher, stronger January.
If you’d like more personalised support:
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Rachel x