Well, people, the holidays are officially upon us. Where did this year go? With Thanksgiving just days away and Christmas right around the corner, I can start to feel my anxiety building, and it has nothing to do with the obligatory get-togethers. It’s just so easy to get lazy and unmotivated this time of year. It’s cold and dark out by 5 p.m., making comfy pjs, E! News and a takeout picnic on the sofa more and more appealing.
In combination with the overindulgence of the holiday season, this time of year can wreak havoc on your waistline. And what a shame it would be to have done so well throughout the whole year, only to drop the ball during the last six weeks of 2012.
We’ve only got a month and a half left so let’s make it count — like those last reps when your arms are on fire, or a sprint to the finish when your legs feel like Jello. We’re almost there. Only to start all over with new goals for 2013.
Here’s my holiday survival plan:
n Stick as closely to regular healthy eating and gym-going/workouts as possible. Prep meals ahead of time so that you’ll have nutritious options when your workplace is full of holiday junk and everyone has gone crazy.
Make sure to get your sweat on every day. Go a little harder or a little longer to compensate for the indulgences you do allow yourself. After all, you don’t want to feel deprived.
n There’s nothing worse than arriving to a party full of good intentions to make healthy choices, only to find that there are no healthy choices. Not a carrot stick in sight. No Greek yogurt dip to be found.
Solve the problem before it’s too late by bringing a healthy option for the whole party to enjoy. A colorful veggie tray or fruit tray with a light dip is easy and will more than likely be appreciated by other health-conscious party-goers.
n During the main meal, put your fork down between bites. It’s easy to eat too quickly and become overstuffed during dinner, but slowing down to savor each delicious bite will give your brain more time to recognize when you’re full.
Skip seconds. Try taking smaller portions of your favorite not-so-healthy dishes and larger portions of the healthier options so you can still enjoy all those culinary creations without all of the added fat and calories.
n Get up from the table when you’re finished eating. Or, at the very least, take your plate to the sink if your family tends to linger at the table for coffee and conversation like mine (which, in my opinion, is the best part of any holiday or family get-together). Removing your plate from view will stop mindless picking in its tracks.
n Thanksgiving is one day. Get back on track first thing Friday morning and for the remainder of the weekend. Christmas is a different story; it’s every man for himself. Just take it one party at a time, do the best you can, and most importantly, enjoy your time with friends and family. That’s what it’s all about.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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