Hi
Ah, the holiday season is just around the corner! It's the time of year when things get cosy, celebrations are abundant and the inevitable holiday weight gain starts to creep in. It happens every year, right? Your motivation starts to fade, the weather gets colder, and it's so easy to just hit snooze on your workout or indulge in those irresistible comfort foods. And
let's not forget the holiday parties, travel and the tempting array of foods that seem to be everywhere.
But what if this year could be different? What if you could navigate the holiday season without undoing all the hard work you’ve put in? It's possible, and it starts with planning ahead and taking small, intentional actions to stay on track.
Here are 6 tips to help you avoid the common holiday weight gain cycle and make this festive season your healthiest
one yet:
1. Assess What You Can Control
The first step to staying on track during the holidays is to assess what you can and can’t control. Yes, the weather is going to get colder and your schedule might get chaotic with holiday events and travel, but there are still many things within your control. For example, you can control what foods you keep in your home, how often you workout and how you manage stress. Start by acknowledging that some things are
outside of your control and focus on what you can manage. This mindset shift helps you feel empowered to make healthier choices.
2. Create a Flexible Holiday Plan
Rather than setting rigid rules for yourself, create a flexible plan that fits with your lifestyle. If you know you’ll be attending holiday parties or traveling, plan for these events ahead of time. You can still enjoy your favourite foods, but balance it with healthy choices. Maybe
you'll indulge at one party and stick to lighter options at another. If you're traveling, make sure to find ways to stay active, even if it's just a quick walk after dinner. Planning in advance helps you avoid stress and guilt when situations arise.
3. Prioritise Movement
The colder weather and busy schedules can make it tempting to skip workouts, but staying active is one of the best ways to manage holiday stress and keep your metabolism revved up. Even
if you’re not able to fit in your usual gym session, aim for at least 30 minutes of activity every day. A brisk walk, a home workout, or a fun dance class can all help you feel good and stay on track. Plus, regular exercise will make it easier to enjoy those holiday indulgences without guilt.
Tip: Set a daily movement goal that works for your schedule - whether it's 10,000 steps a day or a 20-minute home workout. This small, achievable goal can make all the
difference.
4. Be Mindful of Your Eating Habits
The holidays are filled with delicious food, but it’s easy to overeat when you’re not paying attention. Instead of mindlessly munching on snacks or going back for seconds at a party, practice mindful eating. Focus on savouring each bite, paying attention to how your body feels and listening to your hunger cues. Try to avoid emotional eating triggered by stress or boredom, which can often happen during the
busy holiday season.
Tip: Before indulging in holiday treats, take a moment to ask yourself, “Am I truly hungry, or am I just eating because it’s there?” This simple question can help you make more intentional choices.
5. Keep Healthy Snacks on Hand
When you’re lounging on the sofa in your cosy sweatpants, it’s easy to reach for those comfort foods like crisps or chocolate. But instead of mindlessly snacking, have healthier
alternatives on hand. Stock your cupboards with snacks that satisfy cravings without derailing your progress, like nuts, air-popped popcorn, or veggie sticks with hummus. Having healthier options available makes it easier to stick to your goals, even when temptation strikes.
Tip: Prepare snack-sized portions of healthier foods so you’re not overindulging. Portion control is key to avoiding overeating.
6. Allow Yourself to Enjoy the
Holidays
One of the biggest reasons people fall off track during the holidays is because they feel deprived. It’s important to allow yourself the freedom to indulge in holiday treats - just don’t go overboard. Enjoy your favourite foods in moderation, and make sure to balance them with healthier meals and snacks. When you embrace the holidays without guilt, it makes it easier to maintain a positive relationship with food and stay on track.
Tip: Use the
"80/20 rule" - eat healthy 80% of the time and allow yourself to enjoy indulgent treats the other 20%. This balance lets you stay satisfied without feeling restricted.
Final Thoughts
The holiday season doesn’t have to be a time of weight gain and regret. By planning ahead, staying active, and making mindful choices, you can enjoy the festivities while still taking care of your health. Remember, it’s all about balance. You don’t
have to be perfect, but you can take small steps each day to stay on track and make this holiday season your healthiest one yet!
Bonus Tip: Stay Consistent, Not Perfect!
The holidays are busy, and things won’t always go according to plan - and that’s okay! If you miss a workout or indulge a bit too much at a holiday party, don’t let it derail your progress. Focus on consistency, not perfection and remember that one meal or missed workout
won’t make or break your goals. Keep moving forward and enjoy the season!
Happy holidays and here’s to a healthier, more balanced festive season!
Join Our Supportive Community!
If you're looking for extra motivation and accountability to stay on track during the holidays, I’d love to invite you to join my free Facebook group! It's a supportive community where we share tips, inspiration, and
encouragement to help you reach your health and fitness goals - especially during this busy season. Whether you’re looking for healthy recipes, workout ideas, or just a place to connect with others who understand the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, my group is the perfect space to find support. Click HERE to join, and let’s make this
holiday season your healthiest one yet!
Love
Nicki xx
