How To Stay On Track During the Holidays

The holiday season often comes hand in hand with decadent feasts, sweet treats, and a bit of overindulgence. One of the most common questions we get during this time is how to stay on track during the holidays. Staying healthy during the holidays doesn't mean giving up on all the fun and tasty things. It's about finding a way to have a good time while keeping your health in check. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the holiday season with balance and wellness in mind.

Stay Active

The chaos of the holiday season doesn't need derail your exercise routine. Instead, prioritize physical activity and you will feel so much better! Working out will help you burn off the excess calories that are part of the festivities. Exercise can also improve your body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This is particularly important during the holidays when you will probably be consuming more carbohydrates than usual. Movement is also great way to encourage bonding and create lasting memories with loved ones during the holidays. What’s better than a family hike or a friendly game of pond hockey?? Whether it's a brisk walk, a home workout, or an outdoor activity, make sure that movement is a consistent part of your routine during the holidays.

Prioritize Protein and Fibre

Before you reach for the treats, make sure to load your plate with protein and veggies first! Protein and fibre will stabilize your blood sugar and fill you up so that you are less likely to overindulge in less nutritious options. When you feel satisfied, it is much easier to resist temptation and make healthier choices. Vegetables are packed with essential nutrients, and lean protein sources offer a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Foods that are high in protein and fibre are also nutrient-rich. Prioritizing these foods ensures that you're nourishing your body while enjoying holiday fare.

Be Picky

We are all for enjoying yourself during the holidays. But this doesn’t mean you have to say yes to everything. You don’t have to attend every party, eat every treat or drink every cocktail. Instead, be selective and make intentional choices that align with your priorities and what makes you happy. This approach allows you to enjoy the parts of the holiday season that matter most to you while passing on less important options. Being picky doesn't mean missing out on the holiday joy; rather, it empowers you to make choices that leave you feeling your best while still enjoying yourself.

Plan Ahead

Having a plan in place is one of the best ways to stay on track during the holidays. Plan and prep the meals that you will be having outside of the festivities ahead of time. This will ensure that you are still eating well amidst all the parties and social gatherings. If it’s possible to bring food to social gatherings, plan out healthy meals that you can bring. Schedule your workouts ahead of time so that you are still staying active and keeping to your movement goals. It’s also important to have a plan for managing stress and temptations during the holidays. By anticipating potential challenges and having coping mechanisms in place, you can stick to your goal of being healthy and feeling good during the holiday season.

Enjoy Yourself

The holidays are a time for joy and connection. It is not the season to deprive or isolate yourself just because of your goals. When you truly enjoy the holiday moments, it can provide a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond food or indulgence. What truly matters is the time you spend with loved ones. Find a balance between making healthy choices and enjoying yourself. The holidays only last for so long, so truly savour those precious moments!

While the holidays are a time of celebration, they are also a reminder to take care of yourself. Finding a balance between health and enjoyment reinforces the idea that health is a year-round priority. With mindfulness, moderation, and a little planning, you can have a happy and healthy holiday season. 

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