Originally published in In Fitness and In Health
Simple strategies to maintain your health and happiness through the busiest months of the year
The months from November through December often sweep us up in a storm of excitement, stress, and nonstop celebrations. Halloween barely marks the start, with holiday ads everywhere and the chill setting in. Whether you’re attending work parties, family gatherings, or just trying to get errands done in packed stores, it’s easy to lose sight of your own goals and routines during the rush. Here’s how to take control this season with practical tips for traveling, eating, drinking, and bouncing back with ease.
Do you usually diet all month before vacation only to throw it all out once you board the plane? Or maybe you come home from trips feeling less than your best, relieved to hide under sweaters? This year, try a different approach.
Healthful habits can come with you, and all it takes is a little planning. Think of packing your wellness gear right alongside your suitcase. Start by deciding what you want to get out of your trip. Do you want to move your body every day? Eat nourishing breakfasts? Enjoy your time feeling good in your skin? If you answer yes to both what and how, you’re already setting yourself up for success.
Pack sneakers for workouts, bring protein bars or snacks you trust for meals on the go, and plan time to keep up your priorities. This is holiday hacking, preparing yourself to handle whatever the season throws at you with grace and confidence.
Food is the star at most holiday events, whether you’re eating out, visiting relatives, or at work functions. Hearty meals and sugary treats are everywhere. To make it easier on yourself, bring your own snacks for airport waits or long travel days.
When dining out, remember most menus offer protein and vegetables. Look ahead at menus online or social media to scope out your options, and don’t hesitate to ask for modifications. Skip high-sugar or heavy-carb starters like bread baskets or doughnuts.
Alcohol deserves mindful attention too. Drinking taxes your liver, which processes alcohol before other nutrients, so support your liver with foods like banana, avocado, pineapple, nuts, and plenty of water. For a better look at maintaining your nutrition during your travels and holidays, take a look at my article here! And always remember: you don’t have to drink just because others do. Choose what serves your health and happiness.
Parties and gatherings come with tempting foods that can feel impossible to resist. Funnily enough, a study suggests that the only bites we actually are able to savor are the first, second, and last! The key here, when facing an environment you know you’ll feel tempted with, is not to arrive hungry. Have a nutritious snack beforehand to keep your blood sugar steady and your choices smarter.
At the event, pick nutrient-rich appetizers like veggies and fruit, and use a plate to keep track of how much you eat. Try the three-bite rule when faced with multiple treats, three bites of mac and cheese, three bites of dessert. It’s enough to satisfy your taste buds without overindulging.
And don’t feel guilty about saying no to leftovers or extra food you don’t want. You get to decide what goes on your plate and what stays off.
After the busy holiday season, it’s common to feel like your hard work has been undone by indulgences. But don’t stress, your health isn’t ruined by a few extra treats. Exercise and healthy eating can help you feel better, but they aren’t punishment for enjoying yourself. Avoid extreme cleanses or rigid diets. Instead, return gradually to your balanced habits, focusing on consistency and kindness to yourself.
Remember, the holidays are just a small slice of the year. You have the tools to navigate this season with balance and joy, so embrace the celebrations without guilt and keep moving forward.