Who doesn’t love the joys and thrills of the holidays? Celebrations of thanksgiving, gift giving, seeing family and friends, traveling, beautiful decorations, and of course mouth watering food will surround many of us, tempting us to consume more calories in one meal than we need in a day. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the holidays without the guilt!
Stay positive! Remember why you celebrate Christmas and the New Year. These are times to be rejoicing and not stressing. Keeping a positive and grateful attitude will keep your stress to a minimum and you will be less likely to make poor food choices.
Be proactive! As Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” This makes sense in many areas of life including planning for food temptations that will derail your health goals. You don’t have to gnaw on a celery stick in the corner at your holiday gatherings but instead offer to bring something healthy and delicious or ask your host if you could help plan the food choices. If either of these do not work out then eat prior to your arrival or carry a snack with you like nuts that are portable and easy to consume in a hurry, then at the party you will be less inclined to devour everything in sight. And remember it is okay to sample your favorite treats but eat small portions and don’t go back for seconds.
Remember your overall health goals! Keep a small index card in your wallet or purse with your goals written on them. When you feel tempted pull it out, read it to yourself and walk away knowing you will reach your goals that much faster.
Fight temptations but don’t fight alone! Ask a coworker, your spouse, or friend to be your health buddy this season. Accountability pushes your will power beyond what you could ever do alone. Offer encouragement to each other, strategize together, and create goals together!
Now that you have a plan please have a safe and joyous holiday season and may your new year be truly blessed!
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