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Stay Sane, Reduce Holiday Stress, Pass-Along Tip #9
Here’s Something New to Feel Good About Today!
Are you struggling to maintain a healthy diet during this time of year? Don’t feel too bad when you slip. It’s almost impossible to avoid those holiday treats, especially since most of us equate holiday baking with old-fashioned comfort and genuine pleasure.
Much of this season revolves around gatherings, most of which are centered around food. I have to admit I have a sweet tooth; my favorites are warm pecan pie with vanilla ice cream, hot chocolate topped with giant swirls of whipped cream and peanut butter on almost anything! All year long I follow a healthy gluten free, dairy free and almost sugar free diet (I still love my dark chocolate). This time of year sparks my food cravings.
Here’s what I do to avoid packing on those extra holiday pounds while still enjoying some holiday goodies.
1. I allow myself a few of the treats I love most, in moderation and very small portions.
2. I avoid the bakery sections when I shop, I don’t even look at the stuff.
3. I watch what I drink, sticking with water and teas, adding agave or honey.
4. I don’t bring any treats HOME!
5. I am learning new recipes using only healthy ingredients.
6. I don’t beat myself up, I let my slips be OK….
It takes learning new habits to break free of our ingrained food patterns from the past. For many of us holiday foods are firmly connected to our family traditions. We still feel the love in rolling the dough for gingerbread men, we remember hand decorating sugar cookies and playing our favorite games around a cozy fire while sipping marshmallow topped hot chocolates.
For others there may be an emotional void that feels comforted by those additional sweets. Rather than pay a price later, I’ve learned that the holidays are not an excuse to overindulge. Sweet treats will not fill my heart if it needs healing. This year I am making healthier choices regarding what I eat and who I choice to share my holiday time with and so can you.
To avoid stress remember that the holidays will pass, the choices you make will remain. Say YES to loving yourself more and find some new ways to create healthier treats, exercise more and above all there is no need to add guilt into the mix. Remember that reducing your holiday stress is up to you. Pass this tip Along and make everyone’s holiday happier and less stressful! Holiday Pass-Along Stress Tip #1 Holiday Pass-Along Stress Tip #2 Holiday Pass-Along Stress Tip #3 Holiday Pass-Along Stress Tip #4 Holiday Pass-Along Stress Tip #5 Holiday Pass-Along Stress Tip #6
Find Something New to Feel Good About Everyday! Photo by rentenna.com
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