Tips for Avoiding Temptation this Holiday Season

Holidays are a time to enjoy with family and friends, reminisce on the past year and set new intentions for the year ahead. Unfortunately for some, the looming work deadlines and the endless Christmas parties is a stressful time of year that may lead to unhealthy snacking and overindulging in treats. Christmas celebrations happen once a year and it’s okay to indulge a little. We just need to remember not to make it a habit. One bad snack will not undo all the good you’ve done in the recent days, weeks or months, just like doing a one day detox will not undo all the unhealthy habits you’ve adopted over the years. The key is to be aware of the situation, aware of your feelings and willing to let go once the moment has past. If you decide to go ahead and have a sugar cookie or a slice of cake, take the smallest piece, enjoy every bite and tell yourself “This is what I needed at this moment” and let it go. If you decide you don’t want to cave in, here are a few tactics to avert the temptation and still embrace the festivities. Take a walk and breathe deeply Walk away from the kitchen or the room where the treat are and get some fresh air. You will distract your brain from the food item and the longer you stay away, the more likely the urge will lessen. Take a few deep breaths and recite the following: “I am in full control of my impulses. I always choose nourishing foods. I am healthy and strong because I eat quality foods.” Bring your own dish and make your own snacks If you’re invited to a party or you know you’ll be out running holiday errands all afternoon, make some time to bake healthy treats you will enjoy and feel good about. These Gluten-Free Ginger Snaps or Almond Coconut Powder Protein Cookies make a great energizing afternoon snack and a satisfying dessert without compromising the taste. Write it out On your phone or on a piece of paper, write out how you feel after having a certain food you’re trying to avoid. For example, I would write: “Every time I eat milk chocolate, I feel tired and get brain fog. I provide the best possible nutrition for my body. Every time you find yourself in a tempting situation, pull out your statement and read it twice, three times or five times. You will gain strength reading your statement/affirmation and it’ll lessen the urge. So, next time you’re faced with temptation to eat junk food, ask yourself: “Is this going to serve me and make me a healthier individual?” And if you do fall into temptation, don’t be so hard on yourself. We need a sense of balance in our lives and it’s okay to slip up. We’re only human. Justyna Zarzeczny is SierraSil’s Customer Service Associate and Marketing Coordinator, as well as a Certified Holistic Nutritionist whose focus is on seasonal eating and personalized nutrition. She truly believes anyone can achieve a fulfilling and healthy life by tuning into their body, immersing themselves in nature and facing challenges with confidence and strength. Justyna founded ThriveWithTheSeasons.com, where she shares recipes, nutrition information and offers personalized meal plans.