As we get into the thick of the holidays, our resolve begins to wane. Doesn't it? I know mine has. Just turning on the television these days plants visions of sugar plums in our heads...and after seeing them enough times chances are your brain will begin to resent all of that teasing and want to bite into one.
So it's time for reinforcements. Before you head into the weekend, read up on these Healthy Heather Holiday Hints.
There is an army of sugar plums out there, and they're armed. So, we're going to profile the threats. It may be your mother-in-law, your co-worker, or your neighbor…but you know who it is. That person who corners you and insists that you try their Triple Cheese and Bean Dip. They’re “feeders” and they want to feed YOU! You can categorize them as such:
The Nurturing Feeder: needs connection and affection, which you can provide without eating pie. A hug, a shared laugh, an inside joke...all of these things can provide what the Nurturing Feeder needs, but they don't make you fat.
The People Pleaser: needs to feel needed and appreciated, which you can provide by praising their thoughtfulness (but not eating the fruits of their labor). You can even ask for their recipe...and then "healthify" it on your own.
The Controlling Feeder: wants to take you down. They may be angry that you are not enabling their bad habits, or they may be jealous of your discipline and success. Regardless, your best line of defense here is to change the subject with haste.
Feeders aren't bad people. Well, that last one may have some anger issues. But for the most part, they're just swept up in what they consider to be celebrating the holidays. If you want to have a healthy holiday, take a deep breath when you see these folks coming (holding a plate of something they want to feed you), remember their real motivation, and celebrate your relationship with them without the extra pounds.
It can happen! You can do it!
Some people say it is better to give than to receive during the holidays. I've noticed that a lot of those people are trying to give me rum cake.
But they're right - giving is a joy and the ability to give is a blessing. So, give yourself and the people around you a gift this season: the gift of a wonderful January because you didn't eat all that rum cake.
That's right - here is today's Healthy Heather's Holiday Tip!
Tip 'o the Day: Be prepared!
Even the best-laid plans can go awry, but rarely does that happen when you are prepared. Look ahead to your week and categorize any holiday activities this way:
1. Category 1: What you can control. Like for example, YOU can control what you eat for breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner. For real, you can. I dare anyone to open your mouth with a prybar and shove food down your throat.
2. Category 2: What you can’t control. You can't control what your friend makes for a party that you attend, and you can't control what someone brings to the office kitchen and displays in plain sight. You can, however, control your reaction to it. Which brings us to category number 3!
3. Category 3: What battles you are going to fight. Okay, I get that it is the holidays and I know it is hard to not get caught up in the food worship. So, if necessary, compromise with yourself – maybe a glass of wine is okay but not wine AND cheese and crackers. If you want to indulge in holiday food, make it worth it. There is a difference between an indulgence and a binge. Know your limits.
As always, please remember - the holidays are about celebrating with family and friends, and that can be done without food being the centerpiece. By thinking ahead and making a plan, you can avoid being mistaken for Santa Claus come January.
Be good! He sees you when you're eating! :)
