Diet and Lifestyle: How To Survive Holidays

For those trying to balance health and wellness with the typical American lifestyle, holidays might be a stressful time. Activities that center around food (lots of food!) and alcohol can be overwhelming and considered destructive to an otherwise healthy routine. Here are 4 easy steps for you to “stay on track” during your holiday extravaganzas.

STEP 1: STOP OBESSING
It’s a holiday! It’s a time to relax, have fun and enjoy the company of family and friends. Be present in the moment and rid yourself of negative thoughts and worries. They are only manifested in your mind. So cut it out.

STEP 2: LISTEN TO YOUR BODY
Eat what you want! Everything is OK in moderation, right? It’s simple… have what you want. A few drinks, maybe some cookies, a slice of cake – it’s all fine! Just remember to listen to what your body is telling you. Did you just chug three White Claws and now your head is pounding and you feel slightly short of breath? Maybe throw a few glasses of water in there, you dehydrated party animal. Does that cake look really good all of a sudden? Have a slice! It’s all about trusting yourself and your internal cues. Pay attention to what sounds good and what really doesn’t – allow yourself to have what you actually crave in the moment. And if your body is telling you to eat a vegetable, then maybe add a salad to your dessert plate.

STEP 3: HAVE FUN…LIKE, ACTUAL FUN
Again, it’s a holiday. Not a time to be stressed about calorie counts and carb cutting. I guarantee the stress and anxiety you are causing yourself by overthinking it is more damaging than any food or drink you will consume. Enjoy yourself, celebrate and have a good time with those around you. You are deserving of it!

STEP 4: LOVE YOURSELF
“You is smart. You is kind. You is important.”
You are beautiful and you are loved. Love yourself in return.

Also remember, progress is a journey and not a linear path.