I recently had many conversations with clients and friends about maintaining their wellness plan and healthy routines during the festive season.

And I’ve heard countless of times “I want to have fun. I don’t want to restrict myself. I will start again in the new year”. We all fall off the wagon because we are human. But why we wait so long to get back on?

With parties and holidays, we are out of routine. But maintaining your wellness plan is still possible and achievable. Don’t let festivities ruin your wellness plan.

Check the tips below and pick the ones you will implement next time you are out of routine.

1-    Plan and have a backup plan

When parties and multiple social occasions threaten your healthy eating habits, make a plan.

Plan to munch on vegetable sticks or have a miso soup before going out. You will reach the buffet without being hungry and avoid having your first drink on an empty stomach.

Controlling your eating pattern when tipsy is tricky. If alcohol is not out of your equation, decide before the event how much you will drink and stick to it. Always have a glass of water near you and drink water regularly.

2-    Don’t confuse enjoyment and overindulgence

Eating is enjoyable. But overeating gets the pleasure away.

Mindful eating will keep your stomach connected with your brain to prevent excess.

To enjoy the after-party as much as the party, stay aware of what you eat and drink. Savour every bite. Focus on feelings like fullness and satisfaction, so you control better how much you eat.

3-    Quit the “why bother attitude” and get inspired

As you are partying more, you have less energy to go to the gym. Be creative.

There are many ways to stay active. Choose an activity that you love and create the opportunity to practice. Offer a walk to your friends, play with kids, go to a dancing party.

It gets even more enjoyable when you share your plan and get the family and friends involved.

4-    Shift your mindset from missing out to experiencing freedom

Instead of thinking about giving up or missing out if you don’t drink alcohol or eat sugar, think about that you no longer want any more in your life (feeling tired, sluggish, being bloated, experiencing mood swings, whatever applies to you).

This mindset shift, if subtle, will have a big impact to create or maintain the habits you really want in your life.

Ask yourself what you have had enough of in your life. Get out of lack into freedom. Your desired normal will switch and your wellness plan will roll over any changes in  your routine.

5-    Be selective

There is no rule saying that rich food and alcohol is the only way to celebrate. But they are (nearly) always there.

This has become “normal” because of our desire for it, reinforced by marketing and encouraged by our brain function. But it can be a huge obstacle to stay in the best physical and emotional state. “Normal” is not necessary OK.

When you celebrate, keep in mind you can always be selective. Become familiar with serving sizes, choose wisely, select what you drink and follow each alcoholic sip with water. If you celebrate at home,  make your own healthy alternative to traditional festive foods.

Above all, don’t get the pleasure away. Shift your focus and enjoy.