Happier Holidays: How to mindfully eat drink and be merry!

With a little advance planning and a few strategies in mind, you can enjoy the holidays with your own wellbeing in tact! Here are some ideas for maximum joy:

Plan Ahead for Holiday Parties:

• Eat a healthy snack prior to going to a holiday gathering to avoid over-eating. Foods that contain fiber such as vegetables, beans, and nuts help you feel satisfied.

• Bring a healthy offering such as vegetables and hummus, fruit and dip or a festive salad.

• Have a food strategy in mind. Budget your calories wisely and only indulge in homemade foods and treats that are truly special to you. Skip the store bought junk.

• Move away from the food table! Move your conversation away from the food to a place where you won’t be tempted to “pick.”

Get plenty of rest:

• Sleep deprivation causes over-eating and increases stress hormones.

• Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep when possible.

Manage your stress:

• Make time for a “quiet” moment. Stop, sit down and take a few deep breaths.

• Practice letting go - things don’t have to be perfect! It’s better to under-promise and accomplish your goals, than to over-promise and feel stressed and discouraged.

• Simplify! Do you really need to prepare a 5-course meal when a 3-course would do just fine?

• Ask for help if you need it - what can you take off of your to do list? What is really not necessary?

Exercise when you can:

• Exercise helps to burn calories and to reduce stress.

• Add extra steps to your day: park farther away at the mall, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or take a brisk walk after a holiday meal.

Stay hydrated:

• Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages are dehydrating. If you indulge, drink an 8-ounce glass of water for every alcoholic or caffeinated beverage you consume.

• Sugary beverages are very high in calories. Stay away from high calorie soda and coffee drinks and go for mixers such as club soda with a squeeze of lemon or a splash of fruit juice.

Moderation, moderation, moderation!

• You do NOT need to suffer and feel like you are depriving your

self over the holidays. Have the foods you enjoy but be aware of eating/drinking sensible portions.

• Be particularly mindful over the holidays. Ask yourself – am I making the best choice? How will I feel after I eat/do/say this? Will this food/situation/relationship nourish me physically/emotionally/spiritually?

Wishing you a very happy and healthy holiday season!