How to Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones
Now that the holidays are here, it’s a great opportunity to reconnect with your family and friends. However, with phones, computers, and TV taking up so much of our attention, it can be difficult to think of activities that don’t involve screens. This year, why not try to create moments that contribute to your well-being and nurture your relationships? Here are some screen-free, healthy activities to make this season special.
Cook a Healthy Meal Together
Cooking together is a fantastic way to bond and promote healthy eating habits. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, meals made together as a family typically lead to better nutrition, promote healthier behaviors, and can lead to smarter eating in the future. Choose a healthy recipe, shop for ingredients together, and cook a meal as a team.
Take a Nature Walk
Nature has a huge effect on our mental health and has been linked to improved mood and cognitive function. Gather your loved ones for a walk in a local park, forest, or nature reserve. The physical activity, coupled with the calmness of being outside, will help you feel refreshed.
Engage in Volunteer Work
The act of giving not only helps those in need but can also be incredibly fulfilling. Research shows that volunteering is associated with lower depression, increased well-being, and reduced stressed levels. This holiday, consider volunteering at a local shelter, food bank, or charity event as a family.
Create DIY Gifts
Crafting can be a therapeutic activity that stimulates creativity and helps reduce anxiety. Organize a craft night with your loved ones where you can make gifts for each other. Not only does this provide a meaningful present, but it also creates a space for conversation and laughter.
Practice Group Meditation or Yoga
Meditation and yoga are known for their stress-relieving qualities. In fact, studies have shown yoga can lessen chronic stress patterns, relax the mind, and sharpen concentration. Invite your family to join a yoga session or meditate together to find peace and calm during the hustle of the holiday season.
Attend Community Events
Local holiday events like tree-lighting ceremonies, markets, and choirs are a wonderful way to connect with your community and spend time with loved ones. These activities can enrich your holiday experience and create lasting memories.
Play Games
Board games, card games, and physical games like tag or charades encourage face-to-face interaction and can be a lot of fun. Playing games together as a family also helps create emotional connection and positive communication.
Making The Season Merry
Incorporating these activities into your holiday plans can lead to a richer, more fulfilling season. Remember, the heart of the holiday is not about the flurry of activities, but about the warmth and love shared between family and friends. So, this year, let’s turn off our screens and turn toward each other, creating healthy, joyful memories that will last a lifetime.
Be The Example This Holiday
When it comes to good physical and mental health, lead by example. AltaMed has all manner of resources to help you eat right, move right, and take better care of yourself. Let our team of bilingual certified enrollment counselors help you explore program options that work best for you and your family.
Call AltaMed at (888) 499-9303.