December is a magical time of year, filled with festive gatherings, family traditions, and, of course, delicious treats. But for many moms who are trying to stay on track with their wellness goals, the holiday season can also bring a sense of dread. The constant temptation of sugary cookies, rich meals, and indulgent drinks can make it feel nearly impossible to maintain a healthy balance.
You’re not alone if you find yourself caught between wanting to enjoy the season’s delights and fearing the consequences on your health and wellness journey. But here’s the good news: you can enjoy festive treats without completely derailing your progress. It’s all about finding the right balance and making mindful choices that allow you to savor the season while staying true to your goals.
Here’s how you can enjoy the holiday season’s treats without losing sight of your wellness journey.
1. Embrace the 80/20 Rule
You’re juggling holiday parties, family gatherings, and work events, each one offering an array of tempting treats. It’s easy to feel like one indulgence will lead to another, leaving you feeling out of control and guilty.
The 80/20 rule is a simple strategy that can help you strike a healthy balance. This approach means that 80% of the time, you focus on eating nutrient-dense, whole foods that align with your wellness goals, and 20% of the time, you allow yourself to enjoy your favorite holiday treats without guilt.
At holiday events, fill your plate with healthy options first—like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains—then allow yourself a smaller portion of a treat you love. This way, you’re nourishing your body while still enjoying the festive flavors of the season.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead by deciding which events or treats are worth the splurge. If you know you’re attending a party with your absolute favorite dessert, indulge there and make healthier choices at other times.
2. Savor Every Bite
With so many distractions during the holidays—kids running around, conversations to be had, and endless to-do lists—it’s easy to eat mindlessly, grabbing treats on the go without fully enjoying them.
Mindful eating is a powerful tool that helps you truly savor your food, leading to greater satisfaction and less likelihood of overeating. By paying full attention to what you’re eating, you can enjoy smaller portions while still feeling satisfied.
When you’re ready to indulge in a treat, take a moment to sit down, breathe, and focus on the experience. Notice the texture, flavor, and aroma of each bite. Eating slowly and mindfully helps you appreciate the treat more and reduces the temptation to overindulge.
Pro Tip: Practice the “three-bite rule” for particularly indulgent treats. Enjoy the first bite to taste, the second bite to appreciate, and the third bite to savor. This can help you enjoy the experience without going overboard.
3. Balance Treats with Movement
December’s busy schedule can leave little time for your regular workout routine, leading to a cycle of indulging without the usual physical activity to balance it out.
Incorporating movement into your daily routine, even in small ways, can help you maintain your wellness goals while still enjoying holiday treats. Physical activity not only helps balance out indulgences but also boosts your mood and energy levels during this busy season.
Find ways to incorporate movement into your holiday activities. Go for a walk after dinner, turn decorating the house into a mini workout, or have a dance party with your kids. These small bursts of activity can add up and help you stay on track with your fitness goals.
Pro Tip: Consider scheduling short, 10-15 minute workouts in the morning to start your day with movement. Even a quick yoga session or a brisk walk can set a positive tone and help you feel more in control of your wellness during the holidays.
4. Make Healthier Versions of Your Favorite Treats
You love holiday treats but dread the sugar crash and the feeling of derailing your progress. The idea of missing out on traditional foods makes you feel deprived and less connected to the season.
You don’t have to give up your favorite holiday flavors—just tweak them to make them healthier! By making small adjustments to traditional recipes, you can enjoy the treats you love while supporting your wellness goals.
Look for ways to swap out ingredients in your favorite recipes. For example, use almond flour instead of white flour, replace sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, or add in extra fiber with ingredients like oats or chia seeds. These simple swaps can make a big difference in how you feel after indulging.
Pro Tip: Experiment with new, healthier holiday recipes. For instance, try making protein-packed pumpkin muffins, dark chocolate-covered almonds, or coconut flour cookies. These treats are satisfying and delicious, without the sugar overload.
5. Stay Hydrated and Listen to Your Body
Amidst the holiday chaos, it’s easy to forget the basics—like staying hydrated. Dehydration can sometimes masquerade as hunger, leading you to reach for more treats than your body actually needs.
Staying hydrated is key to feeling your best during the holidays. It helps with digestion, keeps your energy levels stable, and can even prevent overeating. Listening to your body’s signals is equally important—learning to recognize the difference between hunger and cravings can help you make better choices.
Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day and make it a habit to drink water before reaching for a snack or treat. Sometimes, a glass of water is all you need to feel satisfied and avoid unnecessary indulgence.
Pro Tip: If you’re craving something sweet, try drinking a warm cup of herbal tea first. It can be comforting and may satisfy your craving without the extra calories. If you’re still hungry afterward, go ahead and enjoy a mindful portion of your favorite treat.
The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed, and that includes the delicious treats that come with it. By embracing balance, practicing mindful eating, incorporating movement, making healthier versions of your favorite recipes, and staying hydrated, you can enjoy the festive flavors of December without derailing your wellness goals.
Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about making choices that align with your goals and allow you to fully savor the season.
