Yep, it’s that time of year, when the invites start flowing and we get ready to toast the end of another12 months. But with temptations everywhere, you can feel overwhelmed if you’re trying to stay healthy.
Work Christmas parties, reunions, family gatherings and end-of-year celebrations are all back on the agenda – such joyful occasions, and they’re often coupled with fabulous food and more alcohol than usual. But what if I told you that you can avoid unnecessary blowouts with just a few easy hacks? Here, it is revealed how to stay on track throughout party season...
BE SELECTIVE
Invites are flying hard and fast, but don’t get caught in the whirlwind and accept every end-of-year party invite that comes along. There’s nothing like a boring party to have you reaching for more fatty finger foods and calorie-laden drinks. Only RSVP to events that are important or that you are likely to enjoy, and let the others go. This goes for when you’re at an event, too – if you’re getting pressured by friends, family or work colleagues to “have another drink” or “have just one more mince tart”, just say thanks, but no thanks!
PLAN, PLAN, PLAN
Plan when you’re going to exercise. Plan your meals. Plan your snacks. Identify your red-flag situations and develop a plan of action. Decide what you’re going to eat as early as possible so that you aren’t put on the spot and fall back on a less healthy option. Make smart calorie swaps on that vegie bake you’ve been asked to bring and avoid hidden temptations by tracking your intake. For sit-down functions with several courses, have a look at the menu before you arrive, if possible, or at least before you sit down. Remember, you don’t have to eat absolutely everything on your plate. Have enough to taste the dish, but be aware during this time of the year that there is often more food coming.
SMASH YOUR WORKOUT IN THE MORNING
Get your workout done as soon as you] get up. That way, you can get it over and done with, and focus on other fun things you might have planned. It may be one of the most hectic periods of the year, but whatever you do, don’t let exercise fall by the wayside. Schedule a training session on the morning of the function and don’t skip exercise the next day, even if it’s just a walk or a quick toning session.
Over the holiday period when your calorie intake increases, you will really notice how exercise can help keep your weight under control. So devise some “going-out game plans” and stick to them, and you never know – in a few weeks you could leave party land in even better shape than you entered it.
PLAN FOR HEALTHY FESTIVE MEALS
There’s no need to go nuts with your meals over this period. It’s not called the silly season for nothing – but it doesn’t have to be. Think about using some super-healthy recipes to share with friends and family instead. Fill your plate once and listen to your body. Once you’re full, you’re full. You don’t need to sneak in those “special” foods – in reality, most of those foods are available all year round. Fight the FOMO!
HAVE FUN
Christmas is a day, NOT a week, so don’t undo all your hard work. Eat mindfully and stay as active as possible. You can still have loads of fun while sticking to your positive food and exercise choices, and you’ll feel so much better for these decisions. A healthy attitude is key.
The bottom line is, there’s no reason for you to avoid the party season and go into hibernation. It’s a wonderful time to be social and to connect with friends and loved ones. With forward planning and a clear strategy before you attend the festivities, you will get through all celebrations feeling your absolute best.
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