Explain this to us, Well Citizen family. Why is it that when people hear the word “wellness,” they often associate it with “no fun?” Seriously. You and we both know that taking care of your mind and body can lead to a better, more fulfilling life, with tons of fun adventures along the way.
So, when it comes to holidays like the fourth of July, we know how to party as well as the next person. Just because Independence Day is known for hot dogs and beer, doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate your healthy lifestyle into more traditional celebrations. Read on to find our favorite holiday hacks to prove to your family and friends that wellness and a good time can coexist.
Healthy Grilling Choices
For most of us, grilling is synonymous is a classic 4th of July party. While there’s nothing wrong with having a burger or brat for a special occasion, there are lots of other ways to boost the nutrition of your meal without losing the fun.
The simplest trick is to make sure you are choosing high-quality protein sources. If you’re serving up hot dogs and brats, be sure to look for nitrite/nitrate-free options. These chemicals found in cured meats can increase your risk for certain types of cancers. Be sure to check the labels to make sure there aren’t any unnecessary additives like corn syrup.
A great way to ensure that you are getting quality meats is to buy from your local butcher shop. Not only can they tell you exactly what is in each product, but you will be supporting a small business with your purchase.
Burgers and brats not your thing? No worries. There are lots of different healthy options for grilling, like these coconut and lime grilled shrimp or veggie skewers with chimichurri sauce.
Lean Into The Sides
Another great way to incorporate healthy foods into your 4th of July meal planning, is to focus on offering a variety of nutritious sides. This can make it easier to have plenty of fresh fruit and vegetable options for your guest. An added bonus? Sides are a great way to make sure guests with all sorts of dietary restrictions have food options.
When it comes to sides, we like to break it down into three different categories: a starchy side, a green side, and a sweet side. This ensures that you will be getting a balanced meal, alongside a more protein heavy man on the grll.
You can use this formula to make sides that go with virtually any main. Serving up traditional hot dogs? Go for potato salad (starch), a big, green salad, and watermelon slices. Grilling chicken or fish? Try this nutty, farro salad, paired with grilled asparagus and your favorite fruit salad. The possibilities are endless!
DIY Treats
There’s nothing wrong with the occasional treat (in fact, we recommend it!). If you’re looking to bring a healthier option to the family BBQ, there is no better way than to make something yourself.
Summer is the time where produce is at it’s best, so why not feature it? Our favorite way to do that? DIY popsicles!
Making popsicles is as easy as making your morning smoothie. All you’ll need is a reusable popsicle mold.
You can make your popsicles with fruit juice, but we prefer to bump up the nutritional content by filling the molds with a homemade smoothie. Throw your favorite fruit, seeds, yogurt, and protein powder in a blender, fill up the molds, and then allow it to freeze for a few hours. You’ll be left with a creamy, fiber rich treat, that will have you and your guests feeling good, inside and out.
Organize a Challenge
Holidays can be exciting, but if you thrive on routine, it may be a little jarring. Businesses like gyms are often closed, which can be tricky if you rely on your gym time to help with your mental and physical health.
You may not be able to go to the gym, like you normally would, but that doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. Organizing a fitness challenge can be a great, family-friendly activity that keeps everyone’s hearts pumping.
Not sure where to start? Things like relay races or games of kickball are great ways to get everyone involved. If you’re looking for something a little more intense, we suggest doing a quick Google search to find 5K and 10K 4th of July races with you. These races are often open to all ages, with options for runners of all skill levels.
Earth-Friendly Tableware
Holidays are the perfect excuse to invite over family and friends for a delicious meal. However, hosting can also come with a lot of waste. If you are eco-concious, you might feel a little wary of using paper plates and disposable cutlery. But who wants to be left with a pile of dirty dishes after doing all the work to put the party together?
Consider stocking up on biodegradable tableware that has the same convenience as traditional paper plates, but are significantly more eco-friendly.
Eco-Friendly Firework Alternatives
Paper plates aren’t the only hazard to the environment on the 4th of July. The biggest problem? Fireworks.
Fireworks are a staple of this holiday, and many of us have fond memories of growing up and watching these beautiful light displays with our families.
However, over the years, people have become increasingly aware of the problems associated with them. On an environmental level, the sheer amount of fireworks being set off every year contribute to large amounts of air pollution. On top of that, fireworks can be frightening to wild animals and pets, causing them to panic and injure themselves as they are trying to escape. Perhaps most importantly, fireworks can be huge PTSD triggers for veteran, the very people who should be able to enjoy this holiday.
Some places have already come up with creative solutions to these problems. When concerns about air pollution during the COVID-19 pandemic arose, government officials in China banned fireworks. Instead, they opted for creative laser and light shows that were more eco-friendly and did not disturb residents.
If fireworks are a concern for you, talk to your city officials about alternative ways to celebrate, in the future!
Focus on Connection
When you are focused on wellness, it can easy to get caught up in the routine of workouts, meditation, and healthy meals. It’s important to remember that having strong relationships is a key part of overall well-being.
Take time this holiday to focus on connecting with family and friends. Catching up and spending quality, phone-free, time with the people you love will benefit you and them.
How will you be celebrating, this 4th of July? Share with us in the comments below!
