It’s officially the holiday season again – and with it, the endless parade of food and treats from now through year’s end that, historically for a majority of Americans, leads to 7 to 10 extra pounds by the time we’re singing Auld Lang Syne. So now’s a perfect time for some easy strategies to help beat the holiday bulge.
First of all, the strategies below are “do’s” instead of “don’ts” and this is a subtle but important distinction. Your subconscious mind doesn’t hear words like “don’t” “never” and “stop” when combined with a negative, i.e. something you want to avoid doing. For example, if I were to tell you to not think of an elephant, what’s the first thing you’ll think of? An elephant, of course!
The same goes for changes you want to make in your habits and behaviors. So instead of telling yourself “don’t eat all those cookies,” try “I’ll have one cookie right now” instead. It may sound silly, but it’s sending a subtle, yet powerful signal to your subconscious that will pay off.
Second, forget denial as a strategy this time of year. [Read: Rethinking Willpower].This is a time for community and celebration, and special food is an integral part of our human connection. When you deny yourself, you feel left out and cheated. (Of course if you really can’t stand Aunt Martha’s fruitcake, feel free to deny it all you want!) Instead, practice these science-based strategies to enjoy the season healthfully.
Strategy: Get Up and Move!
Although millions of diet books may lead you to think otherwise, it’s scientific fact that increased body fat is inherently the result of excess calories (or units of energy) consumed and then stored by the body for future use. So the flip side of the equation – physical activity – needs to be emphasized even more during the holidays, to offset the extra calories you’re taking in.
With all the activities and responsibilities going on during the season, maintaining a fitness routine can be challenging. [Read: Momentum to Move]. What’s most important is figuring out what works for you and what you can consistently stick to during this busy time.
It may need to be a shorter routine than you normally do, but every little bit does matter. Or, try something new that gets you outdoors and moving, like sledding, snowshoeing, a snowball fight with the family, or just a quiet evening walk. Start a healthy new tradition and keep it going!
Strategy: Eat Mindfully
When you eat quickly, your brain doesn’t have sufficient time to respond to the signals coming from your gut that are telling you you’re full. Especially during the holiday season, take time instead to savor each delicious dish to its fullest.
Chew slowly, focus on the flavors, and set your utensil down between bites. Take the time to engage in conversation with those around you during meals and treats, whether at home, visiting friends or family, or at the office. (Read this for more on mindful eating.)
Remember your mom’s advice that it’s impolite to talk with your mouth full? She was right – it is more polite, others can actually understand what you’re saying, and if you’re talking, ergo you’re not eating! You’ll eat less food overall and avoid those gut-busting stomachaches from overconsumption too.
Strategy: Focus on Fruits and Vegetables
While most holiday treats tend to be loaded with sugar and fat, there are lots of equally delicious and festive alternatives. Try something delicious and nutritious like spinach salad with ruby-red pomegranates and toasted almonds; roasted butternut squash with cranberries; or red wine-poached pears with blackberries as a dessert. The possibilities are endless, so challenge yourself to create something new this season (with a little help from Google perhaps).
Strategy: Try Smaller Plates
There’s a reason the buffet restaurants used small plates – it led to less food consumed (nowadays, thankfully, buffet restaurants are pretty much a thing of the past). But you can still apply this same strategy. You’ll automatically serve yourself smaller portion sizes, and eat less overall.
Strategy: Drink Water
Liquid calories can make up a large portion of your daily energy intake without you even being aware of it. Whenever possible, choose water or a sugar-free beverage with a lemon or lime wedge instead, to easily reduce your overall caloric intake.
One Final Tip
Try to emphasize just one of these strategies at a time, instead of attempting to do them all at once. It’s better to achieve success in changing one behavior at a time, rather than to fail at many. Pick one strategy that you’re confident you can do, and focus solely on achieving that single goal. Your success will give you the confidence to add another new habit, then another, and you’ll ultimately start the new year without those extra pounds!
About the Author
Laurie Kelly, CPT, RYT-200 is the owner of Dragonfly Drishti Yoga. She believes yoga offers a wholistic approach to wellness like nothing else. Her background in personal training and nutrition coaching gives her unique insights into the benefits this ancient practice. She loves teaching others how to incorporate yoga and mindfulness into their daily lives, and thereby reach their personal goals. Contact her here.