The holiday season is just around the corner. It means the time around family, friends, food, and making fun-filled memories. But sometimes things get a little too hectic and having a regular sleep schedule can be quite challenging. Last-minute holiday shopping, indulging in too much food and alcohol, sleepless nights from party planning, and attending gatherings – can come at a cost if you’re not mindful. Amidst everything that’s going on around you, you should still prioritize your health and well-being.

As your schedule begins to fill up this season, here are a few things that you can do to maintain good sleep habits during the holidays:

• Stay consistent with your sleep schedule

Keeping a consistent bedtime routine with all the celebrations and events almost every day can be a bit tricky. But getting 7-9hrs of sleep every night should still be one of your priorities. Maintaining a consistent bedtime and wake-up time each day, even after late-night parties, will help you reinforce your sleep-wake cycle and enjoy a more restful sleep.

• Don’t forget to exercise

Make time to get some exercise at least 30mins a day. Exercise has been proven to be beneficial for better sleep quality and quantity. It doesn’t have to be vigorous training, just walking or doing light exercise will do the trick. P.S. Dancing at parties doesn’t count.

• Avoid overeating

Hitting the sack right after feasting is not ideal. Larger meals take longer to digest, which might make falling asleep more difficult. Try to eat at least 3-4 hours before bed to give your body ample time to digest your food intake.

• Lay low on the alcohol

We know this sounds like the most boring tip of all, but hear us out. Yes, alcohol makes you sleep faster but it provides poor quality sleep throughout the night as it reduces rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. We’re not saying stay away from the drinks completely if you do drink, limit yourself to a few hours before bedtime.

 

• Learn how to say “No” 

It’s easy to get caught up and say yes to every invite you get but it’s more important to keep yourself (and your sanity) as your top priority. You don’t have to say yes to every invite. It’s okay to say no. Time with friends and family is important but you don’t have to spread yourself thin and do everything with everyone. Don’t feel guilty for missing out and spending time with yourself just to recharge.

 

It’s the holidays so have fun as much as you want to. But don’t put your health at the back end. Don’t forget to stay well-rested and take some time to relax in what can be one of the most hectic time of the year.