Finding Calm When the Holidays Hit Fast-Forward
Anyone else feel like November and December happen in fast-forward?
Between packed calendars, extra errands, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to feel overstimulated and run down this time of year. I’ve been feeling it too — which is why I’ve been intentionally leaning into a few simple daily habits that help bring my nervous system back to center.
Here are a few ways I’m finding my calm — and how you can, too.
— Geri G
Start Your Mornings with Ease
How you begin your morning sets the tone for your entire day.
Before reaching for coffee, start with a glass of warm water to gently wake up your system. This small step supports digestion, hydration, and a calmer stress response. Saving coffee for a bit later in the morning helps avoid an early spike in stress hormones.
Adding just a few minutes of light movement — stretching, a short walk, or gentle yoga — can help regulate your nervous system and create a grounded, steady energy that carries through the day.
Eat with Intention (and Protein!)
One of the most supportive things you can do for your body during the holidays is to eat with intention — especially at your first meal.
Aim to include protein when you’re truly hungry. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar, supports steady energy levels, and keeps stress-driven cravings from taking over.
Great protein options include:
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Eggs, yogurt, and cheese
(Goat or sheep dairy is ideal; A2 dairy is the next best option.) -
Poultry, fish, beef, or plant-based proteins
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Nuts, seeds, and fruit- or veggie-based protein blends
One of the most common questions I hear is: “How much protein do I actually need?”
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — your needs depend on factors like age, sex, and height. That said, consistency and balance matter more than perfection. If you’d like a general guideline, you can use the Protein Formula I created to get a clearer idea of what works for your body.
Smart Snacks for Busy Days
Holiday errands and packed schedules can make it tempting to grab whatever sugary snack is closest. Instead, try keeping something stabilizing within reach — like an apple, a handful of nuts, or a simple protein snack.
Pair snacks with plenty of water and fiber throughout the day to help you feel fuller, more energized, and more balanced — without the energy crashes.
A Gentle Reminder
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not endured. Small, supportive habits add up, and a little intention can go a long way toward helping you feel calm, nourished, and present — even during the busiest season of the year.
