Celebrating Healthy Means All Good Things In Moderation
Celebrating Healthy Means All Good Things In Moderation
Now that December is here, we are in the upswing of the holiday season and ready to celebrate! As our focus shifts away from the daily grind in anticipation of days off and time to relax, it’s easy to abandon goals and let loose. While this is an appropriate response to the holiday celebrations, it’s like everything else we enjoy – it’s okay to let go, but in moderation.
If we abandon all caution and celebrate for two months, the party will end in the New Year with a harsh realization that we have strayed faaaaaar from our routine and perhaps, severely undermined our goals for a healthy lifestyle. So how can you enjoy the season while staying within an appropriate balance of fun and responsibility?
Let’s start with what moderation looks like. It’s scaling back and choosing less, but not giving up all. It’s about the choices you make for taking some but not too much whether that be time, food, or relaxation. So, think about ways to satisfy the indulgence without plunging into overindulgence. With a bit of prep for the holidays ahead, you can make healthier choices and fully enjoy the fun.
What Does Moderation Look Like
To help put you in the right mindset, here are a few of the ways that we can suggest to prep for enjoyable holiday celebrations in moderation.
Eat Before You Go. Do not go out on an empty stomach! You may feel obligated to be hungry for a host who spent time prepping a meal or providing party food, but that doesn’t mean you have to fill up there. Holiday shopping on a hungry stomach might cause you to feel tempted by fast food or seasonal treats. Instead, eat healthy food at home before you leave and keep healthy snacks in the car to prevent cravings that could start at the sight of tasty food.
Limit Your Intake. It’s very easy to drink your calories. Before you know it, your daily range is maxed out. Think about the types of drinks you enjoy, and plan to ask for these if available. From fancy punches to special holiday alcoholic beverages, give yourself a max beverage limit and stick to it.
Choose Healthy Options. When you are the host, have healthy options when planning your holiday meals. When the food gets served, choose to eat these healthy foods first.
Treat Accordingly. Allow yourself those special holiday treats but have a conversation with yourself to determine acceptable limits. For example, if you love pumpkin pie, allow one slice a week for a few weeks during the holiday months. If you enjoy eggnog, have one small serving a week from Thanksgiving through the New Year. Give yourself permission to enjoy a set amount so you don’t feel like you need to sneak a splurge.
Plan To Successfully Maintain
With a little preparation, you can still get through the holidays with your health intact. It’s about being realistic – special holiday foods will roll out, celebrations are about indulgence, and you will imbibe and partake. Focus on maintaining, and you will wake up in the New Year without regret for your holiday season choices.
