Well, it's the time of year when I usually share a few holiday tips to support you in preparing for the New Year. Because the holidays are a time when many of us visit with family and friends, it's also the time of year when we tend to overindulge with the intention of making up for it in January. Then, the 1st comes around and we start beating ourselves up for letting our health go -- a horrible way to celebrate a new beginning.
This week, I'd like to remind you of a few things that will help you stay healthy during the next couple of weeks. That way, you can enjoy (and take advantage of) the fresh, new beginning that comes with the start of a New Year.
1. Enjoy "soul-nourishing" conversations. When attending social gatherings, spend more time using your mouth for meaningful discussions than unconscious eating. For example, rather than stand around the food table munching away as you listen to a co-worker talk about her latest crisis, find one person you really like, sit down and have a heartfelt conversation. To generate a meaningful exchange, you might ask:
What's your favorite holiday memory?
Have you seen any movies lately that were particularly meaningful or thought-provoking?
Have any big plans for 2007?
I'm always surprised by how open and receptive people are to having deeper conversations. Give it a try!
2. Get out and move your body. Why not start a new and unusual trend? Begin an exercise program *during* the holidays. Bundle up and go for a walk after a meal, join the gym now before the rush, or try something new like snow shoeing or cross-country skiing. You might even gather the family together for a stroll around the neighborhood to look at holiday lights. Remember, your body needs fresh air and sunshine just as much as food and water.
3. Eat protein first. When attending parties, start your meals with some kind of protein (meat, eggs, nuts, cheese, etc.) so you have less room for the empty calories found in tempting desserts. While you'll need to be mindful of how much protein you do eat, choosing it as your first food selection will not only help you feel satisfied and full, but will also make it easier to put limits on your sugar intake.
4. Drink plenty of water. If the weather is cold and dry where you are, you'll need to be more conscious of staying hydrated. Remember, when you feel thirsty, it's an indication that you're already dehydrated. Bring a bottle of water with you wherever you go, and remember that alcohol, soft drinks, coffee, and tea are not hydrating liquids -- they actually deplete your body of water.
5. Bow out of the parties that leave you feeling empty inside. Choosing to disappoint someone else may be just what you need to do to make sure you don't disappoint yourself. Gently let family and friends know that you feel the need to sit this one out. Don't defend, overexplain, or debate your decision. Simply be gracious and firm. Your "soul-care" is always a valid excuse.Most important this season, reach out to someone who could use your love. Look for those who've experienced some kind of loss, are healing from an illness, or just tend to be (or feel) alone during the holidays. There's nothing like putting the focus on someone else's heart to keep us away from the self-indulgent actions that set us up for trouble later on.Relax and have fun over the next couple of weeks. Remember, you're making memories at every moment. Make sure that yours are worth remembering :)
Take Action Challenge
Make one change this holiday season so you'll feel better about yourself in 2007. Eat before going to a party so you don't overdo it, or limit your alcohol consumption to one drink. The trick is to stay awake and plan ahead so you'll be less tempted to make unconscious choices. Happy Holidays!
* Life Makeover For The Year 2006 (sm) is written and produced by Cheryl Richardson. If you have any questions or comments, please send them to: cheryl@cherylrichardson.com. Copyright 1999-2006, Cheryl Richardson, P.O.Box 13, Newburyport, MA 01950. All rights reserved.
Labels: health, holiday stress, holidays, Intensive Self-Care, stress management
