Christmas is just a few weeks away, when many Americans over indulge in food, drinks, and with spending. Too much of anything can be bad, no wonder so many report feeling sick, sluggish and depressed after the holidays. Usually starting at Thanksgiving until New Years, we eat more rich, fatty foods, many reduce or quit their exercise regimen, drink way too much caffeine and for some their alcohol intake increases. With the surge of all the unhealthy habits we find ourselves doing at the “most wonderful time of the year,” this produces havoc in our bodies including lowered immune system, hormonal imbalances, and a spike in our glucose levels.

Just because the holidays are here does not mean you should forgot about moderation and balance. Moderation means avoidance of excess. If you are excessively eating unhealthy, consuming drinks that impair your judgement, or spending money on gifts that you have to put on your credit card; you will have consequences to those actions. These consequences usually show up in January, when the fun and festivities are over. When you get that credit card in the mail and wonder how you will be able to pay it off, or when you have trouble with fatigue that can be a by-product of putting too much sugar, flour, fried foods, caffeine, and alcohol through the holidays.

If you want to maintain your energy, health and strength not just for December but for January and onward, use moderation* in whatever you do. If you have that Christmas cookie, then make sure you have some fresh fruit and vegetables to balance it out. If you are at a party and there are no healthy choices, get a small plate and don’t go back for seconds; and make sure the following day to make healthy eating choices. If you plan on buying Christmas gifts for your children and loved ones, plan on not putting those gifts on a credit card. Start a Christmas savings account and take the money from that. Get creative with gift buying and be resourceful, look for sales, coupons, and shop online so that you can take your time and not impulse buy.

*Those that have struggled or still struggle with certain types of addictions such as food, alcohol, drugs, and/or with spending money; should not give themselves permission just because it is the holidays to do whatever will cause them to relapse into their addiction. You may have to set limits where you go, who you are with, and what you do. Give yourself permission to say, “No,” to things that could potentially harm you.

Remember, just because it is the holidays does not mean you have to go overboard like everyone else. As Christians, let us be set apart and not do the things the world does but let us be true reflections of the joy that comes from Christ. We can still enjoy the many wonderful delights at Christmas, but in moderation and balance.

Reflect and respond:

How will you maintain moderation this holiday season?

Stephanie R. Reck, LMSW, LBT, BCCC
Stephanie Reck, Coaching & Consultation Services
www.stephaniereck.com
[email protected]
Stephanie Reck Coaching & Consultation Services, @2024
Author of, "Disciplining Your Mind 30 Days to a Better You!"