How to Navigate the Holiday Table

Holiday temptations don’t have to ruin your healthy lifestyle

The holidays are fast approaching. We are entering the most wonderful time of the year, but also the most tempting time of the year.

Baked goods, yummy holiday drinks and heaps of comfort food have probably started to come into your life recently. Not to mention your increased family time may mean cutting back on the time you spend working out or getting active.

No need to fret, you can have your holiday cake and eat it too (pun definitely intended). You’ll just need to incorporate some mindfulness this holiday season. Let me help you:

Find alternatives that work for you

Whether it is a healthier version of your favorite holiday drink or guilt free alternatives to your favorite comfort food. There are ways to enjoy all the nom-ful food the holidays bring without sacrificing your healthy eating. If you are attending a holiday potluck or hosting a holiday party, introduce a new healthy dish you’ve tried. This may encourage others to find healthy alternatives to their holiday favorites, hopefully making healthy options more accessible to everyone.

Get active & make memories

The holidays are the perfect time to get some quality time with friends and family; that quality time can include getting active. It could be as simple as a walk around neighborhoods looking at all the holiday decorations, going ice skating or even running a 5K. Who knows, maybe these activities can turn into a holiday tradition.

 

Everyone needs a sidekick

In this case your sidekick will be a healthy snack. Keep a healthy snack with you at all times. If you are out shopping, at a friend’s house, or in the office, always have a healthy snack nearby. When you are faced with not so healthy snack options you can rely on your sidekick to give you the nutrients you need to keep you full until your next wholesome meal.

 

Don’t stress over spilled eggnog

One bad meal or one missed workout will not completely throw you off track. If you find yourself losing your consistency with your eating or working out over the holidays don’t beat yourself up about it. Recognize that you’re not being consistent, and then use each day as a new opportunity to get back on track.

 

The holidays are such a wonderful time of year that should be enjoyed to its fullest. Simply be mindful of your decisions, but don’t stress over them. If you are craving a piece of the family recipe pumpkin pie, enjoy a piece! Restricting yourself will only lead to you overindulging later on. Use these guidelines to better navigate the holiday table, and remember to enjoy yourself!