I know I’m way ahead of myself but soon it will be Yom Kippur, then Halloween. Followed by Thanksgiving. Then lots of holiday parties and Christmas. And before you know it, New Year. I’m tired already. So much food and drink. It’s for sure the time of year where many indulge in the festivities and gain weight. How can you go to every party/event and take care of yourself to minimize the weight gain AND still have fun. Here are three tips to help you through the Holiday’s.
1) Remember it’s all about the connections. Go to the event or party with the intent on really connecting to people. We need social connections and the Holidays are a great time to catch up with people we haven’t seen in a while. It’s not about the food and drink – it’s about the connections. So, find a spot as far away from the food as you can and truly connect!
2) Don’t forgo your current routine of eating healthy and moving. As a matter of fact, it’s a time to really buckle down. So, eat as well as you can between events or parties and get that movement in. Your body will appreciate it.
3) Ah, the yummy food and drink! It’s hard to avoid so focus on adding healthier options like vegetables to your plate before the cheese and other less healthy options. It might be helpful to drink a big glass of water before eating or drinking. I recommend setting some limits like, “I will only go back to the food table twice” or “I will only have two drinks”. If that means that you “nurse” the food or drink, then do it, nobody’s really paying attention anyway.
Maintaining your health is such a great accomplishment during the Holiday’s. It’s so much easier to gain weight and feel sluggish then it is to lose weight and get back into shape starting at the New Year. Enjoy the Holiday’s but also make yourself a priority. Chose healthier options, make it about the connections and don’t forget to move! These are just a few of the tips that I work with my clients on during the holidays…and frankly, all year long. There is always a celebration to attend to like a birthday, wedding, work party, football games, etc. Enjoy the celebration and get back on track right away.