Feasting During the Holidays – Try These Tips! [Life]
My wedding is coming up quick and will be just after the holidays (March 26) so I wrote out a list of “must do’s” during the holiday feasting times. I used some of them during Thanksgiving, and wanted to share them in time for Christmas and New Years!
Go Easy on Seconds.
I won’t make a blanket statement, and not allow myself to have seconds of my favorite dish (mom’s cranberry sauce) but, I make sure my portion is MUCH smaller. In addition to that, my second portion of potatoes and turkey were sans gravy. (Gravy is filled with sodium!)
Say “No thanks” to Leftovers
Give away a lot of the leftovers. If you taking some home with you, do so sparingly. Leftovers can turn 1 day of indulgence into 7!
Squeeze in a Workout
I know this sounds crazy, but I prepped for the big feast day. Thanksgiving morning, I did a 30 minute cardio routine. I know not everyone is this motivated (I have to fit into beautiful white dress in 4months) But everyone can do a series of squats, crunches and lunges. I found by doing so, it curbed my urges to over indulge!
Incorporate a New Tradition.
Take the family on a stroll around the block. You burn off some of the extra calories and spend time together. Remember, the longer you linger at the table the more apt you are to munch unnecessarily.
Indulge—Reasonably.
This goes with my first point, try to sample the treats, instead of having an over sized portion. Even though I like to think carrot cake is just a yummy way to eat vegetables and that slice of homemade apple pie is a delicious arrangement of fruit – its not! So have a sliver of dessert, to keep your waist trim!
Now, I have to admit, I took a few days off of my super intense workout routine for the holiday weekend, but I’m back on track. That is the most important thing, to remember: Breaks are ok, but don’t let the holidays sideline you completely! I’m back into my routine and the Thanksgiving feast didn’t put me back at all!
photo by ladymay79
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My recent post White Flag – Holier Than Thou
Good points to keep in mind!! It's so easy to gain an extra few pounds during the holidays if you're not careful. Thanks for the tips.