Everyone knows the holidays can be a mixed bag of gifts. They’re as renowned for their stressfulness as they are for being a wonderful opportunity to connect with loved ones, clarify end-of-year intentions… and eat! In December, Christmas lights and festive, high caloric food abounds everywhere. And whether you have been “naughty or nice” this year, it’s often easier to go with the flow and throw back an eggnog or two than stick to unrealistic dietary expectations. Here are a few ideas for creating a balance of self-care in the midst of tables laden with sugar, fat and that magical appetite stimulant: family dynamics.
Calories in versus calories out. – Weight gain is something that often occurs when we feel emotionally triggered, and “emotional eating” is a biggie during the holidays. Happily, exercise is a stress buster and an antidote to the extra intake of calories. 500 calories per day or 3500 per week will produce a one-pound gain. So do the math and treat yourself to an extra yoga class or a good, long walk in the fresh air. Breathe deeply and feel your feet connect to the earth.
Eat a healthy meal at home before heading to holiday parties. – When you get to the gathering, scout out a favorite food to indulge in. Keep your portion small and enjoy every bite. You won’t actually be hungry, so it will be easy to go slow and savor the treat like it’s a gift.
Don’t take home leftovers. – Enough said.
Don’t keep dessert in the house “just in case someone drops by.” – If unexpected guests pop in, make a quick run to the store (in your sneakers if possible). Keeping those sweet treats in stock is just an invitation to eat them. Better yet, keep healthful, delicious snacks around the house so if you do indulge, splurge or binge… you won’t have regrets. And when those unexpected friends drop by, they will leave feeling surprisingly nourished from your healthy faire and without a sugar hangover.
Stay hydrated – Alcohol, sugar and refined carbs add stress to your system, so do holiday hangovers. And in the colder months we tend to not drink as much water as on a hot, sunny day. Staying hydrated helps flush toxins and fewer toxins keep your skin and spirit brighter. Plus, water oxygenates your cells, which raises your overall vibration. “Tis the season to be jolly”.
Drink consciously – Even non-alcoholic beverages can add up quickly. Eggnog, juice punch and spiced apple cider pack some serious calories. Try sparkling water and lime with a splash of cranberry juice to feel festive.
Choose to stay happy and count your blessings – Cliché but true: happy people are more grateful; and grateful people seem to be happier. Don’t wait until your relationships, finances or life circumstances are “perfect” to open your heart. Where you place your attention is where the energy flows, so love more and worry less. If it helps, picture the way someone you admire, such as the Dalai Lama or Archbishop Desmond Tutu, would respond to your most challenging relative. Meet them from that mindset.
Sweet slumber: Sleep is when your body heals itself and when your mind takes a break from all the “over-managing”. Make sure you get enough of this magic elixir, even if it means saying “no” once in awhile. Have a warm cup of herbal tea with a dash of cinnamon to help regulate your blood sugar before you go to sleep. A few moments of deep breathing and visualize sending good thoughts to the planet and all its inhabitants, wishing them health, safety and peace. It’s good karma and will calm your overall nervous system. Then invite the seasonal “sugar plum fairies” to dance in your head and settle down to slumber in your cozy warm bed.
Drink this – When all else fails, break out the big guns. This Power For Life green drink is alkalizing, deeply nourishing and will give you plenty of energy to deal with whatever dietary and emotional curve balls the holidays might throw your way.
