The holidays are full of celebration - family time, great food, and once-a-year traditions. They can also toss routines aside. The good news: you don’t have to choose between enjoying the season and feeling your best. With a few simple strategies, you can eat, drink, and be merry without feeling sluggish or off track in January. These are my go-to tips to help you stay balanced, energized, and fully present… because feeling good shouldn’t take a holiday.
Savor Once-a-Year Favorites (Skip the Everyday Stuff)
Seasonal treats are meant to be enjoyed. Spend your splurges on the dishes you truly love - Grandma’s pie, your aunt’s famous cookies - rather than store-bought snacks you can have any time. Slow down and actually taste the special stuff. One holiday dessert won’t derail progress.
Pro tip: Don’t arrive starving. A light protein-and-fiber snack beforehand helps you choose intentionally and enjoy reasonable portions.
Mingle and Make Memories (Not Just with the Buffet)
Holiday gatherings are about people and moments. Fill your plate, then step away from the food table. Chat, play a game, take photos, or hang with the kids. If you need something in your hands, hold water, seltzer, or a small plate of veggies. Socializing away from the snacks reduces mindless nibbling and makes the night more meaningful.
Load Up on Veggies and Protein First
Aim for ½ plate veggies and ¼ plate protein (turkey, ham, tofu). Use the remaining space for the starchy sides or dessert you truly want. Veggies and protein increase fullness and make portion control easy while still leaving room for favorites.
Hydrate and Sleep Like It Matters (Because It Does)
Keep water nearby all day and between party drinks. Hydration supports energy and helps manage cravings. Prioritize 7–8 hours of sleep when you can - being well-rested steadies appetite, mood, and decision-making.
If You Drink, Do It Smart (Mocktails Welcome)
Set a limit and sip slowly.
Alternate: one alcoholic drink, then water, seltzer, NA beer, or a mocktail.
Choose lighter options: dry wine, light beer, or spirits with soda and citrus.
Go festive without alcohol: zero-proof cocktails, NA beers, or spiced cider deliver the vibe without the hangover.
Stick With Simple Structure (Most of the Time)
Consistency on non-party days is the secret.
Meal prep or plan basics: veggies, lean proteins, whole-food carbs. Keep easy options ready (pre-chopped veggies, yogurt, nuts).
Consider help: locally, Meal Me; nationwide, Factor - prepped meals save time and keep you aligned with goals.
Keep regular meal times: steady meals stabilize energy and reduce the “I’m starving” spiral.
Keep Moving
Some movement always beats none.
Keep your routine, scaled to the season: if you usually train 4–5 days, two is still a win.
Make it festive: family walk after dinner, holiday lights stroll, quick at-home yoga, a Turkey Trot, backyard games, dance while you bake.
New here? Start small now: one class a week or a 15-minute walk daily builds a habit that feels effortless in January.
Embrace Balance
Perfection isn’t the goal - consistency is. Enjoy the foods you love, hydrate, sleep well, move your body, and return to your usual rhythm at the next meal. Focus on people and memories, not food rules. That’s how you finish the season happy and healthy.
Want More Support?
Accountability and community: Join CrossFit Mokena for coach-led classes, clear programming, and a supportive crew that keeps you consistent. Or consider personal training to customize your workouts to your specific goals and align them with your schedule!
Personalized nutrition help: Book one-on-one coaching for a plan that fits your life, holiday chaos included.
Ready to keep your momentum through the holidays? We’ll get you started on the best path to success.
~Coach Christie