Top tips for avoiding the Xmas splurge

As Christmas approaches, and we all adopt "frantic mode", when even the most basic principles of looking after oneself take a back seat in favour of shopping, eating out and arranging get togethers with people that we only ever see at Xmas. The tendency is to think to hell with healthy living, there's plenty of time for that in the New Year. However when the New Year comes, most of us find that it's just as hectic, simply underpinning the fact that our lives are just too busy. Take time out to make a plan now for the forthcoming festive season and have a look at some of these ideas to help keep you on good form.

Each week between now and Christmas, Sue Gardner will be giving you a new tip on how to prepare yourself for the festive season. 

Tip 1 - Think Positive (12 November 2007)

If you consider that Xmas is going to be a calorific disaster, then it will be! If however, you think in a positive way and put in place strategies for a healthy Xmas, then there's a good chance that that's how it will turn out. What's more, it won't make it any less enjoyable; in fact you may just find that you enjoyed it more than the usual three weeks of excess.

Tip 2 - Stay Active (19 November 2007)

Most of us take time off at Xmas, so make sure you plan to have time out to relax and re-energize. Take advantage of any crisp, bright, frosty days to take an invigorating walk out in the fresh air, and seek out tranquillity, peace and quiet - time to reflect and get some perspective back into your life. Swimming pools and leisure centres are usually deserted, so if they're open you could have the place to yourself.

Top Tip 3 - Don't be a glutton (26 November 2007)

Most of us have lots of social events to go to and we feel compelled to meet over a meal. It's not compulsory, and why not meet for coffee, or just a drink instead. If you do go out for a meal, ensure that you have something small to eat around 5.00pm, so that by 7.30pm you're not ravenous, and end up ordering everything on the menu. Stay in control and order sensibly. A good idea is to get hold of the menu before hand (most have web sites etc) and decide what to eat before you arrive at the restaurant - this way you are more likely to make better choices.

Next week's top tip - Break With Tradition

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Article courtesy of the Weight Management Centre