Celebration often comes with heaps of sweets and gallons of alcohol
The holidays are right around the corner, and many of you have already begun celebrating with office Christmas parties and visits with friends and family. This truly is the time of year to be merry, and you should treasure the special memories you create with the people you love. The challenge, however, is that celebration often comes with heaps of sweets and gallons of alcohol.
You can have a merry Christmas and a happy New Year without compromising your Habits of Health.
Talk to your health coach about tips and strategies that fit your unique needs and your exact place in your journey, but this quick guide will help as well:
- Plan ahead. Before you even go to a party or attend a gathering, think about your goals and what you really want in life. You can probably predict who is bringing cookies and what will be on the dinner table, so make your eating choices ahead of time and walk through the conversations you will likely have as you explain why you are sticking to smaller portions and healthier items.
- Eat before you leave. In the bustle of holiday travel, it can be easy to go half the day without eating anything, triggering a food binge when you arrive at your destination. Eat healthy foods ahead of time to quell your appetite.
- Drink lots of water. Keep a big cold glass of water nearby, and sip on it throughout the evening. If you feel a craving, take a drink. Oftentimes, water can help you conquer a temptation and control your appetite.
- Ask a friend for help. Confide in a trusted friend or family member that you are worried about the health temptations you will face when you go out, and ask them to help hold you accountable. You might even go as far as to hand them a few hundred dollars that you only get back if you stick to your Habits of Health (if you think you need that extra incentive).
- Give yourself a small reward. The caveat to this suggestion is that you have to be honest with yourself about your self-discipline. Some people, when they taste something sugary or sweet, lose control and enter an eating frenzy. If that’s you, ignore this suggestion. If you are capable, though, have a small piece of dessert and slowly savor each bite.
The holidays do not have to be a time of stress and anxiety. The best part of this time of year is spending time with your loved ones, not eating a bunch of food. Focus on what matters: making memories.