It is officially one week until Christmas and less than two weeks until New Year’s.
Seriously, where has this year gone?!
But as we get closer to 2016, the festivities are just getting started.
From the office holiday party to the neighborhood potluck to the cocktail party thrown by your best friend’s parents’ friend’s friend to your personal holiday celebrations, it seems like there is a social event every single day (not that I’m complaining!).
Which means that there is always food.
Lots and lots of good food.
While many people dread the holidays (and the ubiquitous weight gain associated with them), there are a few tips and tricks that you can use to allow you to have a great time with your family and friends without going overboard.
- Start the day out right.
A good breakfast is key during the holiday season. I used to think that having a light breakfast (or nothing at all) would counterbalance the party later in the day, but boy was I wrong! By the time party time rolled around, I was absolutely starving and ate everything in sight! So make sure you have a balanced breakfast – like Banana Almond Oatmeal or Kale Baked Eggs – to fuel you up for the day and keep you from eating the whole cheese board later!
- Eat a snack before the cocktail party.
Eating a light snack, like hummus and carrots or apple and peanut butter, before heading out to your holiday party will help you stop from overeating when you get there. The snack fills you up a bit and takes the edge off your hunger, allowing you to enjoy your family and friends (and eat your favorite holiday treats in moderation).
- Make time for exercise.
I get it – no one wants to roll out of bed after a late night and hit the gym. But exercise doesn’t have to be limited to just the gym! Park farther away from the grocery store/toy store/book store/etc. entrance and walk. Take the stairs at work. Go for a walk after dinner with your loved ones. Getting in some physical activity each day will not only counterbalance the richer food you’ve been eating, but also allows you some time to clear your head!
- Stay hydrated.
Nothing says the holidays like late nights full of festivities and cheer! But did you know that alcohol is a diuretic? Counteract alcohol’s dehydrating effects by making sure you drink enough water (8-8oz glasses is a great starting point!). An easy way to get in those glasses? Drink a glass of water in between each alcoholic beverage… it keeps you hydrated and reduces the amount of alcohol calories you consume.
- Be in the moment.
The holidays are an exciting time full of food, parties, and fun, but sometimes we need to take a step back and look at what the holidays are really about – being with our friends and family. Sit around the table together and share stories. Watch some vintage home movies. Change into your PJ’s and have a big slumber party in front of the fire. Savor every moment with them.
I hope these tips help you find some balance as we get set to enter 2016!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
oxox,
Catherine
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