Glow & Grow

December days feel like they barely start before they’re over. The mornings are dark, the afternoons fly by, and by dinner, I’m running on fumes. Sound familiar? Winter can drain your energy, especially when the holiday chaos is in full swing. But over the years, I’ve discovered a few habits that help me keep going, even during the most exhausting days.

1. Prioritize Sleep Like It’s a Deadline

This might sound impossible with everything you have going on, but trust me—it’s worth it. I used to sacrifice sleep to get more done, thinking I could “power through” with coffee the next day. Spoiler alert: it didn’t work.

Now, I treat sleep like a non-negotiable deadline. My trick? Setting a reverse alarm. An hour before bedtime, my phone reminds me to start winding down. I dim the lights, turn off work notifications, and spend a few quiet moments journaling or reading. It’s not perfect every night, but aiming for seven solid hours makes a huge difference in how I feel.

2. Fuel Smart

December is full of indulgences, and while I love a good holiday treat, I’ve learned that what I eat impacts my energy levels. I focus on meals with a balance of protein, healthy fats, and veggies. Breakfast is a great place to start: a smoothie with spinach, almond butter, and frozen berries gives me energy without the sugar crash.

I also keep healthy snacks—like nuts or apple slices with peanut butter—on hand for busy days. It’s a small change, but it helps me stay energized and focused.

3. Move Daily (Even If It’s Just 10 Minutes)

Exercise used to feel like one more thing on my to-do list. But once I shifted my mindset, I realized it didn’t have to be complicated. Some days, it’s a brisk walk around the block while my son rides his scooter. Other days, it’s a quick yoga session in my living room.

One December evening, we turned on holiday music and had a family dance party. It was silly, spontaneous, and surprisingly energizing. Movement doesn’t have to mean a trip to the gym—it’s about finding what works for you.

4. Soak Up Natural Light

Short days can take a toll on your mood and energy, so I make a point to get outside during daylight, even if it’s cold. When that’s not possible, I use a light therapy lamp in the mornings. It’s been a game-changer for combatting those winter blues.

5. Celebrate the Small Wins

In the chaos of December, it’s easy to focus on what’s not done. But I’ve found that celebrating small victories—like wrapping a few gifts or surviving a hectic workday—helps me stay motivated.

Winter is challenging, but with a few intentional habits, we can show up for our families and ourselves.