Founder of Hip & Healthy, Yasmine Kuhn,  Shares 10 Simple Ways to Keep you Feeling Great in the Run-Up to Christmas

The festive season is magical, but it can also be totally exhausting. Between last-minute shopping, work deadlines, social gatherings, and family commitments, it’s easy to feel completely drained before Christmas even arrives. But staying energised doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are ten simple strategies to help you feel bright, balanced, and full of festive cheer.

1. Prioritise Sleep
It might be tempting to sacrifice rest to fit in everything on your to-do list, but lack of sleep will leave you sluggish and more prone to stress. For most healthy adults, the recommended amount of sleep is 7 to 9 hours per night, say sleep specialists at the National Sleep Foundation and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. BetterYou’s Magnesium Sleep range is perfect for both adults and kids alike at helping lull reluctant sleep goers into a deep and dreamy slumber – because let’s face it, if the kids aren’t sleeping the adults won’t be either!

2. Move Your Body Daily
Exercise doesn’t have to be intense to boost your energy. A brisk walk, a short yoga session, or even a few stretches in the morning can increase circulation, release feel-good endorphins, and help combat festive fatigue. When you’re feeling tired, we know that this might be the last thing you want to do but getting active (and even better – getting active outdoors) is a fail-safe way to help your body unwind and rest properly later. It also provides you with a bit of “me-time” to recharge the batteries. 

3. Eat for Sustained Energy
Instead of relying on sugar and caffeine, focus on whole foods that provide long-lasting energy. Incorporate protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs into your meals – think roasted vegetables with quinoa, eggs with avocado, or a handful of nuts with fruit. These healthy, energising breakfast recipes by Megan Hallett are ideal for those feeling sluggish in the morning.

4. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget water amid the flurry of festive drinks, but dehydration can make you feel lethargic. Keep a water bottle handy, and balance festive indulgences like wine and coffee with plenty of H2O. For an added boost we love adding electrolytes to our water (especially brilliant around the festive season for reinvigorating tired souls) – our favourites are PHIZZ, which also come with an added bonus of vitamins to help keep immune systems strong too.

5. Manage Your Stress
The holiday season can be stressful, and stress is a major energy zapper. Take 10 to15 minutes a day for mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reset your mind and body. Even a short walk outside can work wonders. The way I best like to do this is to wake up a tad earlier than everyone else in the house – it can sometimes be hard to do with these horrid dark mornings – but everytime I do I feel so much better for allowing myself 15 minutes to drink a cup of tea, or fold laundry to to the sound of Classic FM just so I am on top of the house too. It’s so basic and sounds boring but it’s just about being alone with my thoughts in the morning and working out what I need to do that day before actually doing it. Plus – another big thing here for me is eating right, so I really prioritise that.

6. Plan Your To-Do List Wisely
Instead of trying to do everything at once, prioritise tasks and break them into manageable steps. Crossing off small items can give you a sense of achievement without leaving you overwhelmed. I have a Smythson Diary with all my “To-Do” lists in it and I love it. I also use a family weekly planner for the kids’ holidays (like this) as I am not just juggling my own  “To-Do” lists but theirs too!

7. Supplement Smartly
Nothing stresses me out more than a mid-festive season cold! If your diet is a little depleted during the busy season, certain supplements can help maintain energy and wellbeing. Vitamin C, B vitamins, and magnesium are great for supporting energy levels and reducing fatigue. I love Wild Nutrition’s Energy Support. Always check with a healthcare professional before starting anything new.

8. Take Mini Breaks
Even five minutes away from your desk, phone, or the Christmas chaos can help you recharge. Step outside, listen to your favourite song, or enjoy a warm drink in peace, small pauses can make a big difference.

9. Keep Socialising Balanced
Festive events are fun, but overcommitting can be exhausting. Choose the gatherings that matter most, and give yourself permission to decline invitations when needed. Quality over quantity is key to staying energised. I also have a little unwritten rule that I tend not to drink at the big drinks party but I’ll allow myself a glass of champagne or two with close family and friends as I find the big drinks parties can be overwhelming at the best of time and if I add alcohol into the equation I am full-on depleted the next day. 

10. Embrace the Joy
Finally, focus on the aspects of the season that truly make you happy. Whether it’s baking, decorating, connecting with loved ones, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the fire, leaning into joy naturally boosts your energy and mood.

Enjoy, Happy Christmas xxx