The Surprising Reason to Embrace Holiday Break

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted December 4, 2024

When the holiday season arrives, you often hear warnings about managing the stress of family gatherings, social commitments, and overindulgent meals.

However, some upbeat new research reveals that the holidays can also be a secret weapon for better health.

The study found that regardless of whether you’re still working a 9 to 5, or are retired with a ton of commitments, even short holiday breaks can do wonders for your well-being.

Let’s unwrap this surprising research…

We all know the holidays can be a mixed bag.

Sure, there’s the joy of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations—but there’s also the potential for stress and overindulgence.

However, researchers say your health could get a much-needed boost when you take a break from your regular obligations.

The study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, used data from the Annual Rhythms in Adults’ Lifestyle and Health (ARIA) cohort study.

It turns out that people tend to practice healthier behaviors when they’re on holiday—even if it’s just a quick three-day reprieve.

Folks were naturally more active, which has obvious benefits—but that’s not all.

The researchers also uncovered another holiday health perk that will make you feel less guilty about hitting the snooze button…

On average, people gained an extra 21 minutes of sleep each day they were on holiday break.

Now, you might think, “Big deal, it’s less than half an hour.”

But for those of us who tend to burn the candle at both ends, those precious extra minutes of shut-eye can have a healthy domino effect at a critical time.

Here’s what that extra sleep could mean for you…

• Mood Boost: Ever notice how a good night’s sleep makes you feel like you can conquer the world? That extra snooze time can help stabilize your mood, making you more resilient to holiday stressors.
• Sharper Thinking: Those 21 minutes could be the difference between forgetting to bring Aunt Sally a gift and being the life of the party. Better sleep enhances cognitive function, keeping you quick-witted and on your toes.
• Productivity Boost: You might find yourself knocking out that holiday to-do list with surprising efficiency. Quality sleep is directly linked to improved productivity.
• Disease Defense: Consistently getting enough sleep can lower your risk of developing short-term illnesses, such as colds and the flu, as well as long-term health villains, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and depression.

So, stop feeling guilty about taking time off! Go ahead and embrace the break instead.

After all, you’re investing in your health, and your body and mind will benefit.

P.S. The REAL reason for post-retirement depression.

Source:

Ferguson, T., et al. How do 24-h movement behaviours change during and after vacation? A cohort study. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. (2023). doi.org/10.1186/s12966-023-01416-2.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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