Ah, the holidays are coming, and what a magical time it is here on the Coast! Our beach walks get a little cooler, twinkling lights adorn oak trees — and between the Thanksgiving feasts, December celebrations and Mardi Gras festivities, it’s easy to feel like your health goals are slipping away faster than Santa slides down your chimney.
But here’s the good news: Staying healthy during the holidays doesn’t mean missing out on all the fun. In fact, it’s possible to enjoy all that the season has to offer and still feel good in your body.
Here’s how:
DON’T SKIP MEALS TO SAVE UP FOR THE ‘BIG ONE’
Eating light all day to save up calories for a big holiday meal usually backfires. Showing up to Thanksgiving dinner ravenous can make it harder to tune into your body’s hunger cues. You’re more likely to eat past fullness and consume more calories than anticipated.
Instead, focus on eating well-balanced meals throughout the day — think fiber, protein and healthy fats — to stabilize your blood sugar levels and help you make mindful choices.
HYDRATION, HYDRATION, HYDRATION
Hydration is the unsung hero of the holidays. Between all the celebratory cocktails, cups of hot cocoa and loads of caffeine, it’s easy to forget about water. Hydration plays a key role in overall health and can help you stay on track as you work toward your goals. It’s essential for digestion, metabolism brain function and so much more.
ENJOY YOUR FAVORITES
Just because it’s available doesn’t mean you must add it to your plate. Skip the stuff you’re meh about and reach for the foods that bring you joy or nostalgia (hello, Grandma‘s gumbo!). By satisfying your cravings, you’re more likely to be in control of your food choices and feel content. Food is meant to be enjoyed, not endured — especially during the holidays.
MOVE IN WAYS THAT FEEL GOOD
Don’t view exercise as a way to earn your holiday food. No, you do not have to “burn off” that pie. However, staying active — whether it’s taking a morning walk, entering the local turkey trot or playing a game of touch football in the yard — can boost your mood and help you manage holiday stress.
KEEP PERSPECTIVE
The holidays are just a handful of days out of the year. One day of indulgence won’t undo all of your progress. It’s your habits day in and day out that matter most. Remember that there’s room for balance, celebration and beignets.
DON’T FORGET TO REST AND RECHARGE
Don’t underestimate the power of sleep and stress management. The holidays can be intense with all the late nights and non-stop socializing. It’s easy to get worn down. Carve out time to recharge — read a book, take walks on the beach or listen to music.
Taking care of your health during the holidays is more than just watching your calories in and out. Health isn’t about perfection, but rather making consistent choices that support your overall wellbeing. So, this holiday season, make memories, enjoy the sweet moments and remember that your health is a big picture.