Nutrition by Dawn - Blog

This month, we’re talking about minimalist holidays. And not just minimalist shopping or minimalist decorations, but minimalist wellness too.

Because let’s face it: this season gets busy. Between events, cooking, travel, hosting, shopping, and squeezing in one more thing, sometimes we feel like if we can’t do all the healthy things… we do none.

Sound familiar?

I used to be that person, waiting until January 1st to “start over.” But over the years (and with a lot of intention), I’ve realized something important:

You don’t have to do it all to feel good in your body.
You don’t have to wait until next year to feel like yourself again.

You just have to do something, the small things that matter most.

Let’s Redefine Holiday Wellness

Here’s what a minimalist approach to wellness can look like:

Movement (The Joyful Kind)

No, I’m not saying you have to hit the gym every day over the holidays. But can you get up and stretch? Go for a walk? Invite family outside for a stroll or a casual game of catch?

I recently had knee surgery, so my options are limited, but I’m still hopping on my indoor bike, getting fresh air, and doing what I can.

Minimalist wellness means choosing movement over stillness, even in small doses.

Food (With Joy and Intention)

Holiday tables are FULL of treats, and I am not here to tell you not to enjoy them. Life is short. Have the pie.

But I will encourage you to pause. Ask yourself:

• Do I need seconds - or thirds?

• Am I eating because I’m hungry, or because it’s offered?

• Which foods actually bring me joy?
   

You don’t need to restrict. You just need to get intentional.

Try a little of everything. Go back for the favorites. Skip the rest. Don’t eat just because it’s tradition to be stuffed.

Hydration, Sleep, and Sanity

Drinks with friends? Sure. But don’t feel pressured to overindulge if it’s not your thing.

Late nights with family? That’s life - but try to catch up on rest where you can.

Overwhelmed? Pause. Breathe. Say “no” when you need to.

This season isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence.

You Don’t Have to Start Over in January

There’s no “perfect time” to begin again. There’s just today.

Minimalist wellness means:

• Moving your body a little bit

• Eating with joy and mindfulness

• Drinking water between sips of wine

• Getting enough sleep when possible

• Giving yourself grace, always
   

Take care of yourself now, not just later. Because when you do, you’ll be able to show up for yourself and everyone else even better.

So if you’ve been thinking, “I’ll just start over in January”,  I challenge you to shift that mindset. Start small, start now, and give yourself the gift of feeling good this season.