Silly Season Survival Guide!
Get that shopping done before December 1!
With Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales on towards the end of November, there’s no reason why you can’t get your list together and finish your shopping before December even begins! This way there’s one less thing to worry about and you can spend the month truly enjoying the holiday season.
Don’t go to a party hungry!
The classic “I won’t eat lunch today so I can eat lots at the Christmas party” thought won’t feel good the next day. That bloated, rock in your stomach feeling will only make you regret that decision. Instead, opt for a small, protein-rich meal before you go out. This will ensure you don’t over eat or eat too quickly and feel bloated and sluggish the next day.
Swap every other alcoholic beverage with water!
Trust me you’ll be glad you did this. Especially if you’re mixing beverages. Whilst it may seem like the less fun option, you’ll appreciate this tactic as the night goes on and the next day. If needed, why not say that water beverage is a gin and tonic to keep the pesky peer pressure at bay?!
Indulge in moderation!
It’s all about balance right? And you still need to enjoy life! The 80% healthy and 20% naughty rule can and should still apply during the silly season. Eat well and avoid high sugar and processed foods 80% of the week, and then “indulge” the other 20% of the week.
Enjoy “active” or “movement” catch ups!
We all want to catch up with our friends and family this time of year but instead of scheduling your typical “dinner and drinks”, why not try some more active activities?! This could be a family cricket match, a beach or coastal walk with a couple of friends or a night out dancing.
What should you do if you have over-indulged?
Rest, hydrate and be mindful
This could be a great excuse to just slow down and relax. Be sure to drink plenty of water, herbal tea and Hydralyte. Diaphragmatic breathing is very effective and reducing stress and anxiety. Try this breathing exercise if you need a bit of extra support:
Lay or sit down in a comfortable position
Place your right hand on top of your chest and your left hand under your rib cage
Inhale deeply through your nose
Exhale slowly and completely as you feel your stomach relaxing under your left hand
Repeat this exercise at least 10 more times
Last but not least, think about the fun times you just experienced and the delicious food you just indulged in and be grateful!!