Last week, we started with practical ways you can live well through the holiday season. This will keep you feeling better, more balanced and energetic, and prevent January 2 from becoming a crash course in health (or weight) recovery.
Here are more ways you can thrive and not just survive for the remainder of this beautiful season! (If you missed part 1, you can find it here.)
- “Stay hydrated. This will keep thirst cues from being confused with hunger cues, and will keep you feeling more full and satisfied. Staying hydrated will also keep you sharp, focused, and energized throughout the holiday season.
- Add to the party. If you can, take a “healthy version” dish or snack to contribute to the party spread. Share the goodness, and know you will have a good option to enjoy.
- Hide or freeze the goodies. While you know where they are, keeping sweets out of sight does slow down the nibbles, compared to seeing them out on the counter, in the cookie jar, or in a candy bowl.
- Create your own coffees. Most peppermint mochas, eggnog lattes and other specialty holiday coffees are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. Home coffee systems are becoming popular, which allow you to make your own coffees easily, with clean ingredients, and free of processed sugars. Use flavored coffee beans (gingerbread, vanilla hazelnut, maple, caramel) or spice up the blend on your own by adding cinnamon, cocoa or other favorite spices. Add a natural sweetener, unsweetened creamer and froth a no-sugar milk alternative for a heavenly (and virtually no-calorie) hot drink.”
The final tips are some of my favorites. I really try to focus on these each year, but let’s be real, it’s hard to slow down. But, the busyness raises stress levels and quickly drains our minds and hearts. As we move away from peace, we lose the fun, joy, meaning and reason for the season. My challenge to you is to use these next ideas to make this your best season yet!
- “Be still. In the midst of the bustle, take a few minutes to slow down and unwind. The holidays can be very busy and stressful. Light candles and turn on decorative lights, listen to Christmas music, and just “be” to clear your mind, refocus, relax, and ponder the real meaning of the season.
- Slow down. The December calendar can easily be overloaded with programs, concerts, parties, shopping, family events, and a host of other special activities. But you don’t have to get caught up in chaotic schedules. Choose the events that are most important. Simplify traditions. Be creative. Decorations can be just as beautiful and meals just as delicious when simply done. Your friends and family will likely appreciate the reduced pressures too.
- Enjoy the season. Go ahead and indulge in a piece of pumpkin pie, a couple of gingerbread cookies, or whatever your favorite goodies may be, choosing reasonable portions. Savor the memories, traditions, and special times with those you hold dear. Be in the moment. Love every bite, and don’t feel guilty!
- Celebrate your victories. Focus on the progress you make in the season. Whether it’s maintaining an exercise routine, trying new recipes, reducing sweet beverages, or avoiding the extra holiday pounds, congratulate yourself! Remember, every single step forward counts.”
“Wherever you may be and whatever season of life you’re in, choose to make this holiday season your best one yet. Marvel at the beauty, ponder the significance, and savor the Goodness of the Season.”
Excerpts taken from Alisha’s book, Taste Radiant Living – 7 Simple and Delicious Secrets to Eating and Well-being.
