Nutrigal’s Top 4 Tips for Holiday Socializing

1. When I’m invited to a get-together, my tendency is to starve myself the day of because I know I will eat ten thousand calories at the buffet. Terrible idea! When I starve myself, I end up eating far more than I want to, and eating foods I regret later like those deep-fried tasteless thingys. I’ve learned to eat regularly and sensibly on the day of the party to take the edge off my appetite and empower a bit of restraint.
2.  When I arrive at a party, the first thing I do is grab a glass of sparkling water and wander around for a while. I find someone with whom I’m comfortable and I take a few minutes to relax. I used to eat mindlessly to deal with the stress of a social gathering, standing by the table nibbling and grazing, and worrying. But now I give myself a half hour to settle before I even visit the buffet.
3. And then I indulge mindfully. I choose foods I really love. If I bite in and it’s not the fabulous sensation I expect, I leave it and choose something else. And no, I don’t put it back on the serving platter. I give myself permission to eat only foods I love.
4. After too many nights of socializing, I throw myself a pajama party. I get in my comfy-cozies, light some candles, dim the overhead, and enjoy the twinkle-lights in the greenery. I put on some nice music and savour a simple but tasty dinner, all by myself. Afterward I settle in and watch my favourite holiday movie. If I need a snack, and you know I will, I pour myself a bowl of raspberries and enjoy them with some dark chocolate and a few nuts.

How about you? How do you cope with the parties and luncheons and family get-togethers?