Can you believe it’s November already? We are starting to feel all the holiday cheer around us! Decorations, activities, shopping, ads, stores… odds are you are probably seeing all the spirit filling your life. This year, we decorated early, both at our house & Racquel Aesthetics. I don’t know about you, but Christmas decorations put me in the best mood! But, let’s not forget about Thanksgiving and the season of gratitude. I love to think about the next 2 months being filled with happiness, love, laughter, fun and gratitude! My family and quality time is one of my biggest priorities during the holidays. My kiddos are at such fun ages this year and can already see the spirit and magic through their eyes. When I’m at home, I pour myself into my family and making memories! And when I am at work, I devote my whole self to making my patients look and feel their absolute best.

The holiday season is often filled with fun, celebration, and plenty of distractions. While it’s a time for family, friends, and festivities, it can also be a challenge to maintain your routines while living a healthy, happy and balanced lifestyle. The best gift we can give ourselves is taking care of ourselves so that we can take care and celebrate with people around us. Here are a few of my favorite tips for maintaining balance and fun this holiday season. 

1. Prioritize Your Well-Being 

Amid the holiday hustle, remember to prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Make time for self-care activities, whether that’s taking a walk, meditating, enjoying a quiet moment with a book or treating yourself to services at Racquel Aesthetics.  We have tons of amazing holiday specials if you are local to the St. Louis area.

Regular exercise can also help combat stress and maintain energy levels, so try to fit at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Whether you take a walk, run, go to a yoga class or lift weights, find a way to move your body daily. Not only does physical activity help with your stress, energy and mindset, but it’s going to help you stay on track with the fun, extra calories that come around the holidays. 

2. Plan Your Meals

Holiday gatherings often revolve around food, and it can be easy to indulge excessively. Plan your meals in advance to include nutritious options alongside your holiday favorites. This way, you can enjoy indulgences without derailing your overall health goals. Try to balance your plate with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Don’t forget to drink your water and take your daily supplements! See my daily supplement routine here! 

Pick your meals that you are bringing to festivities wisely. Prioritize your goals of nutrition and ease! I’m adding 2 side dishes I’ll be bringing to our gatherings this year that are delicious, easy & nutritious! 

3. Keep A Routine

In the midst of chaos, maintaining a semi-regular routine can provide stability. Try to wake up and go to bed around the same time, and stick to your usual meal and exercise schedule as much as possible. Plan your meals with a calendar at the beginning of each week and schedule grocery delivery. This can help you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed. But remember, it’s okay to deviate from your routine some, embrace a little flexibility and fun! 

4. Stay Mindful

Practicing mindfulness can help you stay present and enjoy the moment without feeling overwhelmed. Take time each day to reflect, breathe deeply, and express gratitude. This can enhance your overall holiday experience and help you maintain perspective.

Staying on track during the holidays doesn’t have to mean sacrificing joy and celebration. With a little planning and mindfulness, you can navigate this busy season while still focusing on your goals. Remember, the holidays are a time to create lasting memories—so enjoy them fully!!!

My Holiday Recipes 

Thanksgiving Slaw

For the dressing:

• 1/2 medium red onion
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the salad:

• 1 small head green cabbage (about 2 1/2 pounds, or about 10 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix)
• 1 bunch fresh parsley
• 3/4 cup toasted, sliced almonds
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Dressing: Finely chop 1/2 medium red onion and add to a large bowl. Whisk in 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Let sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.
2. Cut 1 small green cabbage into 8 wedges through the core, then cut the core from each piece. Thinly slice the cabbage wedges crosswise to shred (about 10 cups). Pick the leaves from 1 bunch fresh parsley and coarsely chop until you have 2/3 cup. 
3. Add the shredded cabbage, chopped fresh parsley leaves, 3/4 cup toasted, sliced almonds, and 3/4 cup dried cranberries to the dressing. Toss to combine. Taste and season with kosher salt and black pepper as needed.

Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

• 20 dates
• 5 oz goat cheese 
• ½ cup pecan halves
•  1.5 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, plus more for garnish 
• ⅛ teaspoon paprika
•  ⅛ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Chop pecans and add to a small bowl with maple syrup, paprika, salt and fresh thyme. Toss pecans and spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Roast pecans for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.
2. Cut dates in half and remove pit.
3. Stuff each date with goat cheese, top with pecans and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve immediately!

Cheers to a happy, healthy & fun holiday season! 

XO-

Racquel