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Christmas is almooost here, which means sparkly lights, family gatherings, and, of course, all the delicious food. But let’s be real: with all the indulgent treats around, it’s easy to feel torn between enjoying yourself and worrying about staying on track with your health goals. :(
First things first: you’re not alone! We’ve all felt that little tug of guilt after a second helping of pie or an extra cookie. But I’m here to tell you - you can enjoy the holiday magic and keep your health in check. Here’s how I’ve learned to balance it all without the guilt (like 95% no guilt) (and without giving up my favorite gingerbread cookies)!
1. Stop Labeling Foods as “Good” or “Bad”
Let’s get this out of the way - Christmas treats aren’t the enemy! You’re not a “bad” person for enjoying dessert, and one meal isn’t going to derail all your progress. I used to think one slice of cake meant I’d ruined everything (spoiler alert: it didn’t).
Instead, think about balance. Enjoy the foods you love, but also include some veggies, proteins, or lighter options on your plate. It’s all about giving your body a mix of nutrients while still letting yourself indulge a little.
2. Hydration = Your Best Friend
This sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. Drink water throughout the day - especially before big meals. Staying hydrated helps with digestion, reduces bloating, and, honestly, sometimes we think we’re hungry when we’re really just thirsty.
Pro tip: Keep a cute water bottle (I LOVE CHRISTMAS TUMBLERS) with you (because if it’s cute, you’re more likely to use it). And if plain water isn’t your thing, try adding a slice of lemon or a handful of berries for a little festive flair.
3. Enjoy Your Favorites Guilt-Free
Here’s the deal: if you love your grandma’s chocolate fudge, eat the fudge. Denying yourself the things you actually enjoy just leads to feeling deprived (and then eating even more later). Instead, pick the treats you really love, savor them slowly, and skip the ones you’re not as excited about.
It’s not about eating everything - it’s about enjoying the things that make you happiest. For me, that’s always the cookies. Always. And the chocolate Milka's Santa. 😅
4. Keep Moving—But Make It Fun!
You don’t need to stick to a rigid workout routine over the holidays (unless you want to). Instead, think about ways to stay active that actually feel fun and festive.
- Take a long walk to check out Christmas lights in your neighborhood.
- Dance around while baking cookies (bonus points if you play Mariah Carey). 😅
- Challenge your cousins to a snowball fight or a game of charades - it totally counts as cardio!
- My TikTok is full of family Christmas games and all of them seem super funny and crazy. You can find great ideas there.
Movement doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Just find what works for you and roll with it.
5. Don’t Skip Meals to “Save Calories”
This is one mistake I used to make all the time. I’d skip breakfast or lunch before a big Christmas dinner, thinking I’d “save room.” But guess what? That only made me ravenous by dinnertime, and I ended up eating way more than I needed to.
Instead, eat balanced meals throughout the day - something light but filling, like eggs and avocado toast or a smoothie. And a couple of cookies if you are me. :) You’ll feel way more in control and less likely to overdo it later.
6. Listen to Your Body
Here’s the thing: your body is smart. It knows when it’s full, when it’s hungry, and when it needs a little extra love. The trick is actually listening to it.
If you’re full, it’s okay to stop eating (even if there’s still food on your plate). And if you’re still hungry? Go ahead and grab that second helping. Trust your body - it knows what it’s doing.
7. Make the Holidays About More Than Just Food
Christmas is about so much more than what’s on the table. Focus on the memories you’re making - laughing with family, watching cheesy holiday movies, exchanging gifts, or just enjoying the cozy vibes.
Food is a part of the celebration, sure, but it’s not the whole celebration. The people, the love, and the joy? That’s what really matters. ❤️
8. Be Kind to Yourself
If you have a day where you overeat or feel like you went overboard, don’t stress. It’s just one day, and it doesn’t define you or your progress. You’re human, and it’s okay to enjoy yourself. The best thing you can do is move on, drink some water, and keep making choices that make you feel good. Progress isn’t about being perfect - it’s about consistency and self-love.
That's it!
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not stressed over. So give yourself permission to savor the food, the moments, and the magic without guilt. It’s all about balance.
Now, go have that cookie (or two). Happy Holidays, to all of my beautiful girls! 🎄✨
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