Sustainable Holiday Habits to Bring into the New Year
The holiday season is filled with festivities, family gatherings, and food traditions. Rather than throwing out everything you’ve learned, focus on maintaining and building habits that will support your wellness long after the holidays are over. Here’s a guide to help you enjoy the season while setting yourself up for a strong start in the new year.
1. Practice Mindful Eating
With the abundance of holiday treats and indulgent meals, it’s tempting to either overindulge or feel guilty about enjoying your favorite foods. Mindful eating helps you find balance, allowing you to savor seasonal foods without feeling out of control. Take your time with each bite, focus on flavors, and enjoy the experience of holiday meals. This approach builds a healthier relationship with food that extends far beyond the holiday table.
Enjoy your favorites in moderation: Choose a few holiday dishes or treats you’re genuinely excited about, focusing on those and savoring each in moderation. This helps you feel satisfied without feeling restricted.
Slow down and savor: Pause before eating, take a few deep breaths, and focus on the flavors and textures in each bite. Being present enhances the experience and helps you avoid the urge to overindulge.
Gauge your fullness: Midway through your meal, pause to check in with your hunger and fullness levels. If you’re satisfied, take a moment to appreciate the experience before moving on.
Check out our free 30-Day Mindful Eating Project for more tips.
2. Stay Active and Set Daily Movement Goals
The holidays can be busy, but maintaining some form of movement helps keep you energized and balanced. While it’s great to stick to your usual workout routine when possible, remember that any form of movement counts on days when things get hectic. Setting a small daily goal—even if it’s just a 10-minute workout or a step goal—can make it easier to stay active without added pressure.
Stick to your routine when you can: Aim to keep up with your regular workouts as much as possible, but don’t be hard on yourself if things don’t go perfectly.
Set a manageable goal: Choose a daily minimum for movement, such as a 10-minute workout or aiming for a step count, so you can stay consistent even on busy days.
Celebrate all movement: Remember that every bit of activity is beneficial—whether it’s your usual workout, a walk around the neighborhood to see holiday lights, or even a friendly game of football or tag with family and friends.
For travel-friendly or quick at-home workouts, check out our free BIN Bodyweight eBook.
3. Focus on Protein and Vegetables
At holiday meals, it’s easy to fill up on carb-heavy and rich foods. By including protein and vegetables, you can keep your energy steady and stay nourished.
Start with a balanced plate: Begin by filling your plate with protein and veggies to keep you satisfied. Then, add smaller portions of carb-heavy or richer holiday favorites to enjoy a variety without overdoing it.
Bring a dish to share: Bring a protein-packed dish or a vegetable dish to gatherings to ensure there are nutrient-dense options.
Balance rich dishes: Pair richer holiday foods with lighter, nutrient-dense choices earlier or later in the day to create balance.
Check out a couple of our favorite holiday recipes: Honey Roasted Vegetables with Dijon Vinaigrette and Pistachio & Cranberry Brussels Sprouts.
4. Set a Realistic Drinking Strategy
For those who enjoy a festive drink, set a mindful limit and stick to it. Alternating with water or choosing quality over quantity will help you enjoy the moment without overindulgence.
Alternate with water: After each alcoholic drink, have a glass of water to stay hydrated.
Set a drink limit: Decide on a drink limit beforehand and stick to it.
Choose quality over quantity: Savor a seasonal cocktail or favorite wine, rather than having multiple drinks.
Looking to make mindful choices this holiday season? Check out our blog post on Alcohol and Its Impact on the Body to learn more.
5. Embrace Balance Over Perfection
Avoid the urge to “reset” after every indulgent meal and instead aim for a balanced approach. By focusing on progress over perfection, you’ll feel more in control and ready to enjoy the season.
Focus on overall progress: If you overindulge, let it go and make a healthy choice at your next meal.
Enjoy the memories: Prioritize time with family and friends, knowing one meal won’t derail your progress.
Keep perspective: The holiday season is just a part of your overall journey—consistency over time is what matters most.
6. Reflect and Reset for the New Year
Once the holidays are over, take a moment to reflect on what habits made you feel your best. This reflection helps you identify what to carry forward into the new year.
Journal your wins: Write down three habits you felt proud of and want to continue.
Identify one small goal: Set a realistic, health-focused goal for January to ease into the new year.
Let go of what didn’t work: Focus on the habits that felt positive and let go of those that added stress.
7. Consider a Nutrition Coach
Getting support from a coach can make a big difference in building and maintaining healthy habits, especially during the holidays. A coach can help you set realistic goals, keep you accountable, and provide personalized guidance tailored to your lifestyle.
• Get expert guidance: Work with someone who understands your unique goals and challenges.
• Stay motivated: Having a coach provides accountability and encouragement to keep you on track.
• Build sustainable habits: A coach helps you focus on habits that fit your lifestyle and are achievable long-term.
Not sure which program is right for you? Book a free consultation call to explore your options and find the best fit!
By focusing on these sustainable habits, you’re building a foundation that will help you thrive well into the new year. Embrace balance, enjoy the festivities, and start January feeling confident in your health journey!
