How to Navigate the Holidays
The clocks have been pushed back, there is a chill in the air, the leaves have fully transformed into oranges and reds, and football is in full swing. All of which means that Thanksgiving is right around the corner.
Along with the festive cheer, comes lots of parties, food, and alcohol. I know that navigating the next two months can be very stressful for people who are trying to stick to health goals, but there is a way to have your holiday fun and stay on track with your overall wellness goals.
Below are some of my favorite tips to enjoy the holiday season and still wake up feeling good in 2024!
Do not skip meals. It can be tempting to “save up your calories” if you know that you are going to have a big dinner later, but please do not skip meals. You will just end up starving and probably consume more than you otherwise would have. Eat a healthy breakfast and lunch with protein, fiber and lots of greens (you can consider cutting back on the carbs if you know that you will be having a heavier than usual dinner).
Make your goals known. Tell your friends and family that you are trying to eat healthier and may not be indulging as much as usual. If they know what your health goals are, they will be more likely to support them.
Offer to bring a dish. If you are attending an event at someone else’s house, offer to bring a dish so you know that there will be at least one thing that aligns with your nutrition plan. There are so many delicious and healthy holiday recipes out there - try one!
Eat what you love. What is your favorite holiday dish that you always look forward to? Make sure you eat it and enjoy it! Do not deprive yourself of your favorite things, especially if you only have them once a year. But don’t be afraid to skip the other things that you do not love as much. Personally, I love stuffing so I make sure to have that, but I can definitely skip the mashed potatoes.
Move your body. When the calendar fills up, it can be easy to skip your usual workout routine. But getting in some movement will go a long way towards helping you feel good throughout the holiday season. If you can’t make it to the gym, get outside and take a walk instead.
Watch the alcohol. Ah alcohol. Drinking can derail even the best laid eating and health plans. The calories add up quickly if you are drinking, and you are more likely to consume additional, and higher calorie food. If you do decide to drink, try to alternate between water and a drink and stick with lower calorie mixers.
Don’t be afraid to say no. While you may feel some pressure, I promise you that no one cares about your food choices as much as you may think, so do not feel bad for (politely) declining a certain dish or drink if you do not want it.
Get rid of the all or nothing mindset. One meal or one day will not ruin your health goals. The issue becomes when Thanksgiving rolls into holiday parties rolls into Christmas rolls into New Years and it has suddenly been six weeks of eating everything in sight and drinking and not exercising. So try to adopt more of an everything in moderation mindset and recognize that you do not have to be perfect to still be on track with your health goals.
Enjoy yourself! The holidays should be a time of fun with your family and friends. Please do not stress so much and make sure you are enjoying this season of celebration!
