Wellness Focus: Gratitude, Presence, and Supporting Your Nervous System
December is a season of celebration—but it can also bring stress, overwhelm, and exhaustion. At aNew Health in Grand Forks, our December focus is about slowing down, reconnecting, and supporting your body through the holidays with intention and care.
This month, we’re centering on themes that nourish both the mind and body: gratitude, presence, grace, calm nutrition, and nervous system reset—because true wellness isn’t about doing more, it’s about supporting what your body already needs.
Why December Wellness Looks Different
The holidays often come with:
Busy schedules and social obligations
Disrupted routines
Changes in sleep and eating habits
Increased emotional and mental stress
While these are common, chronic stress can take a toll on your nervous system, digestion, hormones, and immune health. December is the perfect time to pause, reset, and create supportive habits that carry into the new year.
Our December Focus Areas
✨ Gratitude
Practicing gratitude helps regulate stress hormones and supports emotional resilience. Even small daily reflections can shift your nervous system into a calmer state.
✨ Presence
Being present—rather than rushed—helps reduce anxiety and improves digestion, sleep, and mental clarity. Slow moments matter.
✨ Grace
Give yourself permission to rest, say no, and release perfection. Health thrives when pressure is reduced.
✨ Food for a Calm Mind
Nourishing, balanced meals support blood sugar stability and reduce inflammation—both essential during high-stress seasons.
✨ Stress Less in the Kitchen
Holiday food doesn’t have to be complicated. Choosing simple, wholesome ingredients helps your body stay energized without overwhelm.
✨ Nervous System Reset
Deep breathing, gentle movement, and intentional rest help shift your body out of “fight or flight” and into healing mode.
✨ Routine
Even small routines—morning hydration, evening wind-downs—can anchor your body during busy weeks.
Supporting Your Nervous System During the Holidays
Your nervous system plays a central role in how you feel, digest food, sleep, and manage stress. Signs your system may be overwhelmed include:
Fatigue or burnout
Poor sleep
Digestive discomfort
Anxiety or irritability
Feeling “wired but tired”
Supporting your nervous system may include:
Consistent sleep and wake times
Breathwork or quiet moments throughout the day
Limiting caffeine and sugar
Nutrient-dense meals
Gentle movement like walking or stretching
Small changes can create meaningful relief.
Recipes for a Healthier Holiday Season
Food is a powerful tool for both nourishment and joy. This month’s recipes focus on comfort without excess, supporting stable energy and digestion.
🍪 Healthy Sugar Cookies
A lighter twist on a classic holiday favorite using better-for-you ingredients.
🎄 Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board
A festive, balanced spread featuring proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables—perfect for gatherings without the blood sugar crash.
You can find full recipes and inspiration on our Pinterest page.
Better Ingredients, Better Balance
Choosing quality ingredients can make a difference in how you feel during the holidays. We love swapping traditional processed items for cleaner options—especially when baking and entertaining.
Look for:
Organic flours and baking mixes
Natural sweeteners
Dye-free, additive-free snacks
Simple ingredient lists
Small ingredient upgrades can support digestion, energy, and inflammation control.
Give the Gift of Health
Wellness is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give—both to others and yourself. aNew Health gift certificates are available and can be used toward appointments, services, and support plans.
🎁 Call or stop by the office to purchase.
Holiday Hours Reminder
To allow our team time to rest and recharge, aNew Health will be closed on select holiday dates. We appreciate your understanding and wish you a season filled with health and happiness.
Final Thoughts
December doesn’t have to be about pushing through exhaustion. With intention, nourishment, and support, it can become a month of restoration—setting the tone for a healthier year ahead.
✨ If you’re ready to support your nervous system, reset your routines, or step into the new year feeling grounded, schedule an appointment with aNew Health in Grand Forks.