'Tis the season to be jolly: Tips for maintaining wellness this holiday season

Submitted by Dr. Mindi Miller-Jentes

Many patients comment to me about how happy and full of laughter I am all the time. While I do have my Grinchy days— just ask my husband and kids— I work hard to keep my focus positive, especially this time of year.

Avoiding unnecessary drama, controlling what I eat, practicing mindfulness, meditation and prayer and healthy self-care really go a long way to ensure I jingle all the way! So, why not pass it on? Here are seven daily practices I utilize to deck the halls with boughs of holly.

DEEP-BREATHING

One of my favorite things to do each morning is sip my cup of coffee on the back porch while I watch the deer grazing in the fields behind my house. I started doing this about five years ago. It has become such a habit that when I skip it, I notice my day is not so jolly! Even during the winter months, I bundle up and enjoy about 15 minutes breathing in the frosty air, while admiring nature all around me. It really sets the tone of gratitude and a joyful heart for my day, not to mention increases the oxygen in my lungs and improves my brain function.

LIQUID VITAMIN D3

Vitamin D is a common deficiency linked to anxiety, depression and chronic diseases. Since my job keeps me indoors, I focus on my health. Vitamin D3 boosts serotonin, which regulates energy, while melatonin helps me wind down at night. To avoid fatigue and sleeplessness, I prioritize Vitamin D. I take a liquid form, placing drops under my tongue with breakfast for optimal absorption, ensuring I'm energized for a day full of sleigh rides and silent nights.

SLEEP MORE

I know that during the winter months, my body wants to sleep longer. The days are shorter and the yawns start earlier. In my opinion, the average adult is extremely fatigued and could benefit from a long winter’s nap. By adding just one or two more hours of sleep each night, I quickly begin to notice improved energy and mood. I find I get more done and function at a much higher level during the day when I sleep 8-10 hours each night during the winter months.

CREATIVE ARTS

I love writing and painting, especially in winter when the slower days and cozy atmosphere inspire me. Writing helps me process my thoughts and emotions more effectively. Both art forms promote brain balance and a positive mindset. When I'm feeling down, I channel my inner Olaf and get creative. Engaging in any creative activity, whether it's music, dance, or crafting, enhances mood and well-being.

IN-SEASON COOKING

Eating in-season is essential for a healthy immune system and adds variety to cooking. In winter, I focus on root vegetables, winter berries, citrus fruits, local meats and healthy fats like tallow and olive oil. My diet consists of 70% fiber, 20% fat and 10% protein, with minimal sugars and carbs. I use Coconut Palm Sugar instead of cane sugar and avoid artificial sweeteners like xylitol and aspartame to reduce cardiovascular risks. I prioritize real food over artificial options.

QUALITY TIME

When the negative media gets to me, I focus on spending time with loved ones instead. We enjoy dinner conversations, games, puzzles, baking and chestnuts roasting on an open fire. I try to listen more and ask good questions. It’s a challenge, but my efforts make our time merry and bright.

BE LAST

In today’s fast-paced world, everyone seems to be stressed to the max. I’ve made it a practice to intentionally "be last." This means I leave a few minutes early and take my time. I stay to the right while driving, allowing the aggressive drivers to pass by. When I’m out shopping, I let parents with children or elderly couples go ahead of me in the checkout line.

At restaurants, I ask the waitstaff to bring me what I need “when they have time.” By slowing down and putting myself last, I feel far less stressed, and I have the opportunity to bless someone else in the process!

To really experience the gift of a holly jolly Christmas season, I encourage you to implement some or all of these tips. As you go about decking your halls, checking off your naughty and nice list and bringing Christmas cheer to every boy and girl, I trust you will experience joy in your heart and inspire peace on earth everywhere you go!

Dr. Minid Miller-Jentes is a board-certified holistic chiropractic physician, author of “Pain to Peace: Setting the Songbird Free,” watercolorist, speaker and mother to four adult children. She is the CEO and co-owner of Brio Wellness Center — a holistic, family-operated chiropractic clinic in Selma, where she lives with her husband.