Rules for the holidays

It’s simple - enjoy.

As the plethora of holiday seasons approaches (for us Canadians, the party gets started next weekend!), so, too, do the pressures to indulge in sweets, and high-fat-high-carb foods. We are fed countless messages that we shouldn’t allow ourselves our favourite treats throughout these days. But all this does is take away the joy of spending time with loved ones.

The pressure to be skinny, to restrict our diets and to count calories escalates during these times of the year. Yes, it’s important to make healthy choices, but it is equally true that relaxing and living in the moment reduces stress and helps with both physical and mental health. And the truth is, a day or two off the rails isn’t going to undo all the hard work you put in the rest of the year. 

The key to successfully indulging over the holidays, is to get back to your routine. If you slip up as you readjust, no worries! We all have those moments - and not even just during the post-holiday season. When these moments happen, the best thing you can do is recognize it and get back to it as soon as possible. There should never be shame or guilt associated with these situations. But if you do feel these things, take it as a sign that your work is paying off!

So have that square, slice of pie or helping of cheesy mashed potatoes! Enjoy it. Enjoy the company. Enjoy the downtime. And when the holiday is over, get back to work. Your body will thank you.