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Five Ways to Thrive During the Holidays
Forget all that you have heard about surviving the holidays - we can do better! From religious celebrations and gift giving to family, friends, and parties, this is a time for connection, renewal, enjoyment, and down right fun. Try these five tips for a happy, healthy, and thriving holiday season:
Bonnie
- Be generous with yourself - Busy finding, buying, and wrapping gifts for everyone on your list? Include yourself in the mix, and make it good - something no one else would give you. I'm talking about time. While everyone is hustling about, consider taking an afternoon to relax. If that seems too long, how about an hour? Read a book, meditate, watch a movie… and the best thing is, this gift you do not have to wrap!
- Be a fun party-goer - Instead of dreading parties for all their calorie-laden foods, approach them with the anticipation of fun. Whether the party is an opportunity to connect with old friends you do not see very often or the chance to meet new people, go with the goal of being social.
- Be choosey - Of course you will inevitably eat at a party. When you do, be choosey. If that chocolate treat that looked so good on the platter tastes less than spectacular, dump it.
- Be cautious of liquid calories - One cup of eggnog (without alcohol) is 340 calories. Now, if you love eggnog - enjoy a cup. If not, see #3 above. Liquid calories - from cider and liquor to beer and wine - really add up if we are not mindful. And, have you noticed that when drinking alcohol you tend to not pay attention to over-eating? If you do drink, consider a glass of water between every beverage to reduce your calorie intake and keep your mind clear.
- Be selfish - Selfish at the holidays? No, I have not gone off the deep end. Say "no" when you need to. Agreeing to something out of guilt or a sense of "should" (all the while dreading the commitment) does a favor to no one, least of all you. Trust that gut feeling (instinct) that tells you "this is something I don't want to do." And then, don't do it. If you feel an obligation to contribute, offer to help find someone to fulfill the commitment
Bonnie
