Balancing Indulgence and Health During the Holidays

Who doesn’t love buttery shortbread cookies with green and red sprinkles or a slice of pecan pie? The key to enjoying these yummy delights without going overboard is portion control. Yes, it’s as exciting as it sounds. Instead of scarfing down everything in sight, pick one or two things you really, really love and savor them. Savor them as if it’s the last time you’ll ever taste the chocolatey coconutiness of that delicious snowball. Your waistline (and digestive system) will thank you.

Who has time to hit the gym this time of year? You're too busy hunting for the perfect stocking stuffer, moving The Elf on the Shelf for the umpteenth time and creating your seasonal signature cocktail for your Christmas Eve gathering. But staying active can help you feel more energized and keep the holiday stress at bay. If you can’t squeeze in a full-blow workout, try parking the car far away from the mall (which, let's be honest, is probably going to happen regardless), fitting in a few minutes of yoga in between wrapping presents, playing a game of tag with the kids or my personal favourite — an impromptu dance-off to Elvis’ “Santa Claus is Back in Town.”

Instead of stacking your plate as if it's a game of Jenga and diving in like it’s the last meal before you start the cabbage soup diet, try slowing down and actually tasting your food. I know, I know, it’s hard to be present when you’re eyeing the last turkey drumstick while your plate is already loaded with mashed potatoes and Grandma’s cornbread, but mindful eating is your secret weapon here. Take smaller bites and chew slowly. Before heading for seconds, ask yourself if you’re really still hungry or just eating because everything looks and smells so amazing. If you're full, stop.

Ah, the office Christmas party: where the drinks are flowing, the conversation is awkward, and your coworker Dave from accounting has already had one too many and is now telling everyone about his antique stapler collection. It’s easy to get carried away at office parties — especially when your boss hits the point in the evening where “Jingle Bell Rock” is “the best song ever!” Just remember to keep an eye on your cocktail intake, balance it out by staying hydrated with water, nod politely at Dave's stapler stories and give your boss a thumbs up for his groovy moves on the dance floor.

With all the parties, travel and shopping, it’s tempting to skimp on rest. But getting enough sleep is essential for recharging your body, managing stress and keeping your immune system in check, especially with all those holiday germs floating around. So, instead of pulling that all-nighter to finish wrapping gifts or prepping for tomorrow’s big dinner, try to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Your body and mind will thank you, and you’ll actually be able to enjoy the holiday fun without feeling like a walking zombie elf.

For most, the holidays come with their own level of stress — gift shopping, family drama, holiday travel, standing in line to visit Santa. But stress can also trigger cravings for comfort foods (I’m looking at you, chocolate). The best way to combat stress is to simply take a break. Step away for five minutes, breathe deeply or take a walk to recalibrate. Managing stress can help curb those emotional cravings. And if you do indulge in a treat you’ve been eyeing all day? Ditch the guilt. It’s all about making a conscious choice, not just reaching for something because you feel you're about to flip out. Sometimes, a little indulgence is exactly what you need to unwind.

Instead of trying to have it all, like wine and chocolate cake, choose one indulgence and own it. Want that glass of wine to pair with your meal? Go for it! Craving a slice of decadent death-by-chocolate cake? Have at it! Don’t try to squeeze both in and end up feeling like a sugar-filled balloon that's about to pop. Enjoy your choice and remember that moderation doesn’t mean deprivation, it means making conscious decisions.