The holidays can be a stressful time; full of lush food, extravagant spending and lots of time with the in-laws.  Fun times! 

Here are a few tips to survive the holidays without over indulging in and keeping a balanced life style.

{ 1 } Eat three well balanced meals a day.  Do not skip meals only to load up on high-caloried foods at a dinner party.  Eat sensible throughout the day and when your dinner party comes don’t go overboard. 

{ 2 } Drink lots of water! End of story.  No if’s or but’s ya gotta drink it and lots of it.

{ 3 } Fill up on veggies.  Most parties have a big platter of veggies, stick to it like glue.

{ 4 } I know for many of you major sweet-toothed beauties this one will be hard….Pick a few sweets to indulge in and do not waste your time on any of the others, no matter how good they look.  There are only a couple treats that I have one or two of each year.  If there are other treats you are dying to try, get one bite and pass it on or throw it away so you won’t be tempted.

{ 5 } Eat to live not live to eat.  I’m not saying don’t enjoy the Holidays.  But remember what the season is about and don’t consume every minute of it indulging.

{ 6 } Don’t eat the treats co-workers bring in!  Pick and choose the ‘events’ you are going to indulge in.  Not every get together needs to be labeled as a ‘special event’. 

{ 7 } Exercise.  Even if it’s just a long walk.  That will do you a world of good.  Your mind and body will be so thankful.

{ 8 } Keep alcoholic beverages to a minimum.  If you have a drink or two one night make sure to drink water the next night.  You don’t need to have a glass of wine or cocktail at every event. 

{ 9 } Try to relax and go to bed on time.  Being well rested will help you manage healthy eating habits and in turn will make you feel all around more balanced. 

{ 10 } Bring your own healthy dishes and snacks to the party.