By Jem Hanan, Contributing Blogger
Clean the cobwebs from your corners and take the skeletons out of your closet, because this Halloween is all about embracing your wellness. We’ve compiled a list of our spookiest wellness tips to get into the Halloween spirit, because RBX’s All Hallows’ Eve is all about treating yourself.
1. Stay Hydrated Between Treats
A surefire way to feel energized this Halloween season is to remember to drink water! Even though the cold has begun to settle in, hydrating is still just as important as it was in the summer months. If you have a hard time drinking, add some fruit to inject your water with natural sweetness or citrus. You can even use orange slices to match your drink to the orange pumpkins and leaves ubiquitous during the Halloween season.
Trick: Set a reminder on your phone to sip water between treats, or try drinking a glass of water with every handful of candy or sugary drink. You’ll feel a lot better for it, and it’ll keep your energy up all night long.
2. Embrace the Seasonal Superfoods
Halloween marks the peak of fall, bringing us a bounty of nutrient-rich seasonal foods. Pumpkin, for example, is loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and Vitamin A. Squashes, apples, and cranberries also offer an array of health benefits, from boosting immunity to improving digestion.
Trick: Try making some fun Halloween-themed recipes using these seasonal superfoods. Pumpkin spice smoothies, roasted pumpkin seeds, or apple cider with a cinnamon stick are delicious and festive options that also help balance out the sugary treats.
3. Prioritize Sleep, Even on Halloween
Although midnight is considered the witching hour, getting into the Halloween spirit does not mean you have to be awake until then. Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of sleep every night so you’re full of energy for even the most frightening festivities. A good night's sleep sets you up for an even better day, and will make all of the above tips that much easier to carry out.
Trick: Schedule your Halloween activities so that you have at least one “wind-down” day. Avoid excess caffeine or sugar close to bedtime, and if you're out late, consider an afternoon nap to keep your energy balanced and avoid the “Halloween hangover.”
4. Keep Active with Festive Activities
It’s so easy to stay active during Halloween. Take a walk around your neighborhood to see all the houses decked out in ghostly decor. Accompany your kids while they trick or treat as a fun way to get some steps in. You can even visit a corn maze at night, navigating the paths while the sun sets and you only have jack-o-lanterns to light the way.
Trick: Try incorporating some screen-free Halloween activities like carving pumpkins or going for a spooky nighttime walk. These activities can help you feel more present and energized-- plus you'll get a nice workout in!
5. Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy Sweets
Halloween candy is a staple of the season, but indulging too much can lead to sugar crashes, mood swings, and even stomach aches. However, there’s no need to deprive yourself completely—balance is key. The important thing is to feel good about what you’re putting into your body. Portion the treats out in a festive bowl or eat some chocolate as dessert after a balanced, healthy, and filling meal. Savor each and every bite!
Trick: Set aside a “treat yourself” stash with a small amount of your favorite sweets. Eat them mindfully, and savor each bite! Alternatively, consider swapping in some healthier treats like dark chocolate-covered almonds or dried fruit. This way, you can enjoy the season’s treats without overdoing it.
Halloween encourages spending time with friends and family, so these wellness tips are tailor-made to get everybody in on. You don’t have to sacrifice feeling good for embracing the ghoulish and ghostly festivities that accompany Halloween. The spookiest thing this season will be how healthy you feel by the end of it!
