How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays

Tricia Hayton, Registered Physiotherapist
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It is that time of year again.  There is a lot of rushing to and from the mall, holiday concerts, and social gatherings.   And although this time of year can be fun, it is often very difficult to stick to a healthy lifestyle.  This includes diet, exercise, and relaxation.  Here are some helpful hints to help.

1. Make it a priority:  I do realize that this is easier said (typed) than done.  But the conscious effort to prioritize yourself will yield good results.  This doesn’t mean that there won’t be times of indulgence, but overall, the balance of good habits vs bad will be in check.
2. Water:  The elixir of life.   Bring a favourite sparkling or flavoured water to your social gathering and even your healthy drinks will feel like a treat.   Does this mean that you can’t slip in an egg nog or two – of course not, but try to alternate with water to minimize your calories… and your hangover.
3. Make exercise fun:   Make some of your social and family gatherings active.   A feisty family game of laser tag, a scavenger hunt, or hockey on an outdoor rink (weather permitting) can be a great and active start.  If you are not as competitive as my family, go for a hike, tobogganing or walk to see the lights in your neighbourhood.
4. Plan Ahead:  If you’re hosting a party, make sure to have a veggie or fruit platter.  I’m sure that you are not the only one who will appreciate the healthy option.  Also, make sure that you eat a healthy dinner prior to the party.  This will prevent you from filling up on the rich foods that are often served.
5. Don’t be tricked:  It can be helpful now that restaurants are including calorie counts.  Make sure to pay attention.  I was stunned when I first realized that some salads have more calories than the tasty(ier) Asian noodle dish I was eyeing.

My final piece of advice, don’t expect to be perfect.  After all, the holidays only come around once a year.  On this note, I’ll end with a useful quote.

“Giving up on a whole day of healthy eating because you allowed yourself one treat, is like dropping a cell phone, then stomping on it just to make sure it is broken.” 

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