Dr. Ryder on Arizona Horizon: Managing Holiday Stress

The holiday season can be a joyous time, but it often comes with a lot of stress. Whether you're juggling family gatherings, work events, or holiday shopping, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But did you know that simple changes to your diet and routine can help manage that stress?

Watch the full interview with Dr. Loreena Ryder from Naturopathic Physicians Group as she shares expert advice on how to handle holiday stress naturally:

Eating Clean During the Holidays

One way to combat holiday stress is by focusing on eating clean. But what does that mean? According to Dr. Loreena Ryder, it’s all about what you remove from your diet, not just what you add.

Dr. Ryder suggests removing sugar from your diet, as it causes inflammation, brain fog, and fatigue. If you have a sweet tooth, try reaching for fruit instead. The fiber in fruit slows down the sugar release in your bloodstream, preventing spikes and crashes.

For those who prefer savory snacks, nuts are a great alternative. They are packed with omega-3s, which support brain function, and tryptophan, which promotes a good mood.

At Naturopathic Physicians Group, we also offer food sensitivity testing to help you make informed choices about the best foods for your body.

Exercise: The Ultimate Stress Reducer

We often associate exercise with weight loss, but it does so much more. It improves mood, reduces anxiety and depression, and gives you energy. Dr. Ryder encourages patients to find a workout routine they enjoy, whether it’s high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or a leisurely walk in the park.

Even if you're tired after a long day, making time for physical activity can boost your energy levels and improve your thought processes.

Mindfulness and Its Benefits

Practicing mindfulness is another effective way to manage holiday stress. Mindfulness means being fully present in the moment, without judgment. Dr. Ryder offers a simple exercise: while eating lunch, take a bite, put your fork down, and focus on the taste and texture of the food. This practice can reduce anxiety, depression, and even heart disease.

Getting Enough Sleep

We all know that sleep is essential, but it's often the first thing to suffer during the holidays. Dr. Ryder recommends aiming for seven to nine hours of sleep each night and suggests setting an earlier bedtime to give your body time to rest. Don’t forget to put your phone away before bed, allowing your mind to unwind and prepare for sleep.

Managing Stress the Naturopathic Way

At Naturopathic Physicians Group, we understand the challenges of managing holiday stress. Through clean eating, regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and quality sleep, you can reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Our team is here to help guide you with personalized wellness plans.

Don’t let holiday stress take control of your life. At Naturopathic Physicians Group, our expert naturopathic doctors offer personalized, natural treatments to help you manage stress and improve your well-being. Whether you need guidance on clean eating, exercise, or mindfulness, we’re here to support you. Call us today at (480) 451-6161 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced holiday season.