3 Holiday Hacks

I love the holidays! It's a time for family, friends and foods we remember from our childhood. PAUSE- I grew up in the 70's when Velveeta Cheese and Buddig Beef were staples in holiday recipes. Insert cringing emoji here.

Here are 3 Hacks to help you get through the holidays without setting yourself back. Let's not go into the New Year further behind our health goals than where we are now.

Hack #1- It's OK to Break Tradition

If you have family traditions that don't necessarily lead to better health it's ok to change it up a bit. If you know that hosting a cookie exchange means a month of you eating cookies everyday. Why not host a holiday party where you all bake one batch of cookies and just enjoy a few. Maybe do a holiday craft instead, or go for a family walk in the neighborhood to look at all the Christmas lights. Introduce a new and health giving tradition.

Hack #2- One Holiday Meal Doesn't Have to Spoil the Month

If you look forward to a special Christmas Breakfast or New Years Dinner, go ahead and enjoy it. It's one meal, just don't use the excuse all month long that "It's the holidays and I'll get back on track in January." Since this is a busier time of year, stock up on fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds to get you through shopping trips, decorating and wrapping sessions. Spend a Sunday preparing a yummy, healthy soup or stew to freeze for weeknight meals. This too can teach your family a new healthy holiday tradition.

Hack #3- Keep Moving All Month Long

Exercise is SO important. Don't put it off and say you'll start in January. Start today, even if it's a walk around the block a couple times a day. Put on some music and dance around your living room. Go up and down your stairs 2 or 3 times in a row, several times a day. Find ways to move more. The kitchen counter is a perfect place to do modified push ups.