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The festive season is upon us, and let’s face it, the holidays can sometimes feel like one long buffet. But instead of dreading the scale come January, why not get ahead of the game? This isn’t about deprivation or dieting through the festivities—it’s about making simple, mindful choices that keep you feeling your best, even in the middle of a Kiwi summer.
Here are my top tips to help you navigate the pre-Christmas season without overdoing it:
Destress Before You Indulge
The holiday rush can crank up your stress levels, and guess what? Stress hormones like cortisol make your body cling to fat. So, before you hit that Christmas BBQ or tuck into your festive feast, take a few minutes to breathe. Seriously. A quick 3-minute breathing exercise can work wonders. Breathe in deeply for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for six. It’ll calm your nervous system, keep stress in check, and even help you make better choices when it’s time to eat. in fact, make time to reset with deep breath work as many times a day as you can, pause, and do it now.
Prioritise Sleep—Even in the Summer Heat
With the longer days and holiday buzz, sleep can take a backseat. But it’s your secret weapon for keeping cravings under control. Poor sleep messes with your hunger hormones, making you reach for sugary snacks to stay awake. Protect your sleep as much as possible: set a bedtime, wind down with a screen-free hour, and aim for 7-8 hours a night. Keep your room cool and dark, and maybe try a summer-weight duvet. Sleep has been one of my biggest game-changers for shifting kilos—it’s that powerful. We bought a cool bamboo summer duvet from Brisco's, it's perfect.
Rethink Your Festive Feasting
The holidays are a time to enjoy food, not fear it, but there’s no need to go overboard. Here’s a simple mindset shift: focus on ‘crowding out’ rather than cutting out. Load your plate with veggies and lean proteins first, and you’ll naturally leave less room for the heavy, sugary treats. And don’t forget to drink water! Often, thirst is mistaken for hunger, and staying hydrated can keep you feeling satisfied. One of my favourite tricks at parties? Rotate between alcohol and fizzy water with lemon or lime. It keeps you refreshed and cuts down on unnecessary calories.
Try Morning Fasting
I’ve found that a simple morning fast—waiting until mid-morning or lunchtime for my first meal—can make a big difference. It gives your digestive system a break, balances your blood sugar, and helps you stay mindful of what you’re eating later in the day. Combine this with hydrating well in the mornings, and you’ll feel lighter and more energised. Start by lengthening your no-eating window 15 mins at a time, I often don't get hungry until midday.
Savour Every Bite
Here’s a simple, yet powerful tip: slow down. Chew each bite thoroughly and take your time. Eating slowly not only helps you enjoy the flavours of your food but also gives your brain time to register that you’re full. Make it a goal to stretch meals out to 20 minutes. You’ll likely eat less and feel more satisfied. I need to practice this one...
Move for Fun, Not Punishment
December is busy, so don’t stress about fitting in long gym sessions. Instead, sneak movement into your day in ways that feel good. Take a brisk walk along the beach, go for a swim, dance at parties, or park your car well away from the shop, or a friend's house.
Movement doesn’t have to be formal to count.
Final Thoughts
The pre-Christmas season doesn’t have to mean overindulging or feeling out of control. With a few mindful habits, you can enjoy the festivities while staying balanced. What worked for me? All of the above! Especially prioritising sleep, reducing stress, and trying morning fasting—these were game-changers for shifting kilos and feeling good.
Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Be kind to yourself, have fun, and celebrate all the small wins along the way.
You’ve got this, babe!
And, I am right here to guide you. Don't hesitate to get in touch.
Love & Stardust,
Caron xox
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