It’s that time of year again—the holidays are around the corner, and the fitness influencer brigade is already out here telling you that “food is just fuel, use it wisely.”

Let me tell you: that’s absolute bullshit.

If food was *just* fuel, why do we gather around tables with family, share meals, and reminisce over that amazing stuffing recipe passed down through generations? Food is so much more than calories in, calories out. It’s love, memories, family traditions—and yes, sometimes it’s that one slice of pie you can’t wait to have.

But here’s the catch:

If you go into the holidays with the mindset of either extreme—either “I’m going to eat absolutely nothing off-plan” or “I’m eating everything in sight”—you’re setting yourself up to fail. After years of coaching clients, I can tell you: those who try to be perfect usually end up binging and feeling worse. And those who treat it like a free-for-all end up feeling sluggish and regretful once the holiday glow wears off.

So, let’s find some balance… shall we?

---

The Myth of “All or Nothing”

Trying to abstain completely from holiday treats or guilt-tripping yourself into eating only bland, “clean” foods is a fast track to misery. And if you think skipping out on Grandma’s famous pie is going to make you fitter, leaner, or more disciplined, you’ve missed the point entirely. The reality is, it’s not that one meal or that one day that messes with your fitness goals. It’s the mental burnout of trying to be perfect that leads to falling off track completely.

On the flip side, treating the holidays like a buffet free-for-all isn’t the answer either. You can enjoy the holidays *and* take care of yourself. It’s not about punishment, restriction, or shame—it’s about being mindful, not miserable

---

So, How Do You Navigate the Holidays Without Losing Your Mind?

Here are some tips to keep yourself on track (without sucking the joy out of your holiday season):

1. Focus on Protein (& Don’t Blow It All on Breakfast)

   Start your day with a solid protein-packed breakfast—think eggs, Greek yogurt, or a protein smoothie. This will keep you fuller longer and prevent you from showing up to holiday dinners ravenous, ready to inhale everything in sight. If you’re eating throughout the day, make sure you’re getting enough protein with each meal so you’re not just snacking on cookies and cheese boards.

2. Get Your Fruits and Veggies In

   Yes, I know this sounds like basic advice, but seriously—get your greens in. Not because you’re trying to be a saint but because they’ll help keep you full and satisfied. Plus, you’ll actually get the vitamins and nutrients your body needs to feel good. It’s hard to enjoy the holidays when you’re bloated and tired because all you ate were carbs and sugar.

3. Be Picky: Eat What’s Truly Worth It

   Here’s the real secret: not every holiday snack is created equal. Save your indulgences for the things that are truly worth it. Love your aunt’s famous pumpkin pie or your mom’s homemade cookies? Enjoy them. But that random bowl of chips or the stale cookies sitting on the office counter? Probably not worth it. Make conscious choices to indulge in the foods that have meaning to you and bring real enjoyment, rather than mindlessly grazing on whatever is around. Remember, it’s about eating what you *love* with intention—not just because it’s there.

4. Move Your Body (But Don’t Obsess Over It)

   Yes, I own a gym, and I’m all about getting stronger and moving more. But the holidays are not the time to punish yourself with extra workouts because you ate pie. If you can get a workout in, great. If not, maybe go for a walk with family or get outside for some fresh air. It’s about moving for how it makes you *feel*, not to “earn” your next meal.

5. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

The easiest way to keep things in check? Drink water. Lots of it. Not only will it help you feel full, but it’ll also keep you from mistaking thirst for hunger. Plus, it’s a great way to prevent that sluggish feeling after a big meal

---

The Bottom Line

Look, you don’t need to deprive yourself to stay on track during the holidays, nor do you need to treat it like the world’s longest cheat day. The key is balance—enjoy the foods you love, make smart choices where you can, and don’t beat yourself up over one big meal.

The holidays should be a time to celebrate with the people you care about, not a season of food guilt and stress. So, take a breath, eat the damn cookie (the one that’s actually worth it), and remember—one meal won’t derail your progress. But letting every random snack turn into a free-for-all? That’s when you start to lose control.

Happy holidays, and enjoy every bite with intention! 🎄🍽️

---

If you’re ready to take the first step to becoming the happiest, healthiest version of you, we’re here to help.