How to Survive the Holiday Season

Does your fear of overeating during the holidays overshadow the excitement and joy of the season? Has the festive season and time spent with family become a source of stress and anxiety over the years? If the answer is yes to both of these questions, you aren’t alone! For many people, the holiday season means overindulgence and guilt. Is it possible to simply let it go and reconnect with the joy of the season? Here are a few tips.

• Try eating mindfully

The holiday season only lasts two weeks. So why not take this opportunity to be mindful? Easier said than done! Here’s my advice:

• Listen to your body: eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re full.
• Savour your food, take your time to taste it and appreciate the oh-so-comforting flavours.
• No foods are forbidden! Such restrictions make them more powerful and harder to resist. It’s all a question of how much and how often. And don’t take an all-or-nothing approach. Don’t let a slice of pie ruin your day!

• Have a snack

Is limiting your daily calorie intake is an effective strategy? Think again! If you are hungry when you get to the party, you’ll probably give in to every temptation. It’s better to have a snack before the party to curb your appetite. It’s much easier to listen to your body’s signals when your hunger is low.

• Get moving

Do you have more free time during the holiday break? Take out your skis, snowshoes, or skates...and get some fresh air!

• Limit your alcohol consumption

Besides being high in calories, drinking alcoholic beverages impairs your body’s ability to know if you are hungry or full. Some studies have shown that subjects who consumed alcoholic beverages ate more than those who didn’t. Do you get the munchies after two or three glasses of wine? Moderation will help limit your cravings and help you avoid morning-after migraines!