Tis the Season!

Hard to believe that Christmas is less than a week away - time flies when you're having fun, right?  For many this is a very stressful time of year with shopping, wrapping, sending, parties, drinking, eating and being merry!  We are bombarded with sweets, treats and "goodies" that can make us feel bloated, sluggish and ultimately unhappy.

How do we avoid putting ourselves through the roller coaster of emotions this time of year and make choices we can pat ourselves on the back for?  My motto is "never say never".  I don't believe in restricting ourselves from anything we truly enjoy,  but I do believe in moderation.  And I know we've all heard it before,  so how do we do it?  Through awareness.  Just be aware of your surroundings and your feelings when you're circling the buffet table.  Be conscious of what and how much you're dishing out to yourself.  Also, be aware of how you feel before, during and after you eat.  I think just being in touch with your feelings can make a world of difference!

Okay, some practical tips: 

Don't starve yourself thinking you'll save yourself calories.  You'll only end up being ravenous and most likely eating everything in sight!  Eat a couple of handfuls of raw nuts before you hit a party and you won't feel so inclined to consume all there is to offer.

Load up on veggies first.  Go for the healthy stuff and leave less room for the not so healthy stuff.  If you're in doubt if there will be anything healthy - bring your own!  A veggie tray is easy to assemble and can brighten up any table.

Think color.  Go for foods that are easily identifiable and colorful.  Remember you are what you eat.  So the more colorful the food, the more colorful you!  And I'm not talking about the dyes that make those cookies look so pretty!

And lastly, for Pete's sake, don't fret if you over indulge!  Move on and make better choices the next time.  It is the Holidays after all and I believe it is a time to enjoy yourselves, your friends and your family.  Just don't go crazy!!! 

So keep some of these things in mind while you're out partaking in the festivities and you'll be moving into 2011 with a more positive attitude!!!   Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!!!