Holiday weight gain is real, and it doesn’t matter your age – anyone can be
affected. What’s more, studies show that the extra pounds you put on between
Halloween and Christmas can take more than five months to lose. Here are a few
helpful tips to help you “maintain and not gain” this holiday season.

1. BE ACTIVE AND KEEP YOUR REGULAR ROUTINE.
   Don’t lose sight of your regular routine. Changing up your routine can lead to added anxiety. Keep your normal exercise routine, participate in your usual events, and stick to your normal nutrition.
2. EVERYTHING IN MODERATION.
   Special dinners and gatherings lend themselves to easy access to lots to eat and drink. You should try not to binge with food. Indulging may feel good in the moment but remember seconds on your lips, years on your hips!
3. SNACK WISELY.
   Cookies, Cakes, and Crumpets! When delicious goodies are easily accessible during the holiday, you’re likely to snack more than normal. Be mindful of what you are snacking on and remember the moderation tip above.
4. BETTER TOGETHER.
   Do you have people in your life that make you feel valued and who lift you up? Make a point to spend time with them this holiday season. If they don’t live close by, call them or send them an email, letter or card.
5. LEARN TO SAY NO.
   You have permission to say NO when you’re asked to do more than you can. It’s okay to say no if it’s going to add additional stress. Only do what you can and want to do. The holiday season is about enjoyment and celebration.
6. ASK FOR HELP.
   Just like you have permission to say no, you also have permission to ask for help! People tend to take on more than normal during the holiday season. It’s okay to ask family and friends for help.
7. CATCH YOUR ZZZ’S.
   Don’t let the holiday hustle get in the way of your sleep. Try your best to get 6 to 8 hours of sleep a night.
   Getting less sleep can cause you to eat and drink more, exercise less and not feel well.
8. SELF-CARE.
   If you’re feeling down, treat yourself. Take a break, go for a walk or read. You do you, and what you want to do. The holiday season is about you too, so take some time to energize yourself.
9. MOVEMENT IN THE MOMENT.
   The holidays bring lots of time to sit – sit to watch Christmas movies, sit at dinners, sit at church, sit playing games… the list goes on and on. The key is to stay moving – take a walk while you catch up with your family, take the stairs instead of the elevator, park farther away at the store, get up during commercials, and don’t skip your workout.
10. STICK TO YOUR GOALS.
    Set goals for the holiday hustle. Who would you like to connect with? Where do you want to go? What do you want to see? What do you not want to give up during the holiday season? Write them out and post them on your refrigerator. These can help you stay on track and maintain during the holiday hustle!