Plan Ahead for a Healthful Holiday
Friday, November 20th, 2009
By APOGEE’s Nutrition StaffYou probably have a Thanksgiving shopping list, travel itinerary, and a food preparation schedule. Do you have a Thanksgiving wellness plan, too? If you create a health and fitness strategy now, you’re more likely to emerge from this holiday week feeling energized and in control.
1. Schedule time for your physical well-being. Whether it’s an exercise class, a walk with a friend, or 20 minutes on your mat at home, find a time each day to maintain your physical fitness habit during this holiday week. Maintaining a routine is easier than stopping and starting. (Check APOGEE’s holiday hours at our White Plains and Bedford Hills locations.)
2. List the special foods you’d like to indulge in. Nothing says Thanksgiving like a helping of—you name it! Perhaps it’s stuffing, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin pie. If you have preferred dishes, then make a plan to skip the foods that are not your favorites. If you’re a guest, scan the table or buffet before you begin to make your choices. Choosing what is special will help you enjoy the meal without overindulging.
3. Make a drink plan, too. The calories in alcoholic beverages add up quickly. Decide ahead of time what you will drink and how much. Be certain you have a water glass handy—and full.
4. Picture healthful portions. Visualize a plate with space between normal-sized portions of the Thanksgiving foods you love. Picture yourself savoring the flavors and textures you look forward to. Then imagine yourself feeling comfortably full afterwards. Visualizing what you want will help you achieve it.
5. Bring in some healthful options. Have vegetables and fruit on hand so everyone has healthful options to munch on; bring them as a hostess gift if you need to. Include plenty of non-caloric drinks such as water.
6. Make friends, family and gratitude the focus of the day. Yes, the food brings us together, but it’s the people around the table—and the gratitude you express—that make the day meaningful.
Learn more about healthful eating at APOGEE’s Nourish Basics workshops.
