Ready to Finish 2023 Strong?
No matter your health goals, it’s so easy to get derailed over December. 3 or 4 days of celebrations should not have a significant impact on your results. But these few days can easily turn into a whole month of festivities as our social calendars fill up. And as you might imagine – a whole month off-track won’t do your goals any favours.
But that doesn’t mean that you can’t indulge in some treats or that you have to feel deprived this season. It’s a question of finding balance, compromise, and defining your non-negotiables. Yes, this might involve some planning ahead; but you’ll feel more in control and build confidence with each choice you make. Not to mention, you’ll feel more energised and clearer headed over the next few weeks.
Check out my top tips below:
Week by week…
1. Plan your meals.
As you know, I am a big fan of meal planning and at this time of year it can be extra helpful. Plan around your social events, anticipating ahead of time, the evenings and days when you may be less willing to cook, or more pressed for time. Batch cooking and freezing can be your secret weapon to keep your meals healthy.
2. Plan your drink free days.
Alcohol consumption definitely increases over December and it doesn’t have to be so! In addition to the disruptive effect that alcohol itself can have to your weight loss, energy and fitness goals – it can mess up your sleep and immune system – not ideal for this time of year… Make sure you have a few drink free days each week, and try going alcohol free at a couple of events. If you want some accountability, try one of the many apps available, such as Drink Free Days.
If you’re hosting…
3. Don’t assume that guests won’t welcome a change.
There are only so many canapes, mince pies and beige-ness a person can take! Offering some healthy options alongside the standard fayre doesn’t have to be labour intensive, and will be a refreshing change for some of your guests.
Eg Crudités, seeded crackers, with hummus or other bean and veggie dips, devilled eggs, smoked salmon and cucumber bites.
4. Send guests home with leftovers.
At the risk of being a bad host, most of us end up over-catering and end up with loads of leftovers. If these are healthy choices – then this is great! But if not, then give your guests leftover desserts to take home. Any unopened treats can be donated to food banks.
Adapt your workouts
5. Go short and sweet if you need to.
If you are struggling to find time for your workouts, don’t deprioritise them – just adapt! You don’t have to dedicate a full hour to every workout, and short workouts don’t just have to be HIIT (high intensity interval training). If you have a trainer, chat with them about how you can adapt. Alternatively, join the You By Anthea Together Community for 15 minute efficient and effective workouts and yoga!
Remember, everyone manages December and Christmas differently, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. The key is to find what works for you, strike a balance, and embrace the joy of the season without compromising your health and wellness goals. So, as we approach the end of the year, let's finish 2023 strong, feeling in control, energized, and ready for the new adventures that lie ahead. Cheers to a healthy and happy holiday season!