Stay skinny this holiday season with this strategies and tips from Advice Guru, Liz Pryor. We caught up with Liz at the River Rock Lounge for a meeting of the minds on how to sail through the holiday season without dragging 10 additional pounds into the new year! Watch the video to enjoy Liz's tips.
Here are some ideas for you to consider:
1. It's not about the food.
Seriously. Yes, there may be lots of tempting treats laying around, but that's really not why you're there. Make yourself a small plate with the best choices you can muster and move away from the food. It's rude to hover over the dip anyway! Make it a goal to leave food on your plate. Toss it in the trash or give to the waiter as soon as you can. Think of it as a hot potato, pass it and move on.
2. Decide in advance to focus on conversations.
As many "holiday only" foods are around, many "holiday only" people are around, too. Focus on them. We tend to take for granted that our loved ones and dear friends will be with us forever, but it simply isn't so. Take this time to really listen to that crazy story your favorite Aunt tells or really see into the eyes of your child. This day, this moment, this time will never come again. Remember, these ARE the good old days, enjoy them.
3. Bring an ally.
If you are bringing something for a buffet, consider your personal resolve first and bring a dish that will be delish and figure flattering. You can do it!
4. Use the sandwich technique.
When it comes to alcohol and beverages in general you can end up consumming more than you bargained for. Try the sandwich technique: have a glass of water (sparkling or flat with a fresh lemon or lime garnish) before and after any other beverages you consumme.
5. Volunteer.
Ask the host or hostess how you can help. Having a task can take the edge off nerves you may feel about mingling with strangers, or your not so favorite people that may be on the guest list.
6. Sing!
You can't eat when your mouth is full of music.
7. Dance!
Not a good dancer? Treat yourself to some lessons or try taking a walk. Find a way to get some movement into your celebration schedule, before, during or after the party.
8. Eat.
Yes, eat! Don't go to a party ravinous. Have something before you go. It's a great time of year for apples, pears, walnuts, pomegranates. Throw a little baggie of granola (right now, I'm hooked on Uti's Gluten Free Sweet & Fruiy Cranberry Granola, I received a free sample and now I'm adicted.) or dried fruit, sunflower seeds, nuts, something nutritious that you LIKE and that doesn't need refrigeration, into your purse or car. And while your at it, make sure that you stay hydrated! A bottle of water and a few almonds have saved me more than once.
What strategies do you use to maintain your waistline through a hectic holiday season? Do you wait until January and attack the new year with vigor? If you have a something that works for you, please share! We can't wait to hear from you.
Oh, by the way, there's still time to enter the drawing for Liz's book! Enter here.
