Healthy Holiday Challenge

Nothing says "Happy Holidays!" like sugar cookies and hot cocoa. Unfortunately, nothing packs on the unwanted holiday pounds like those sweet treats either. Instead of taking two (or ten) steps back this season, set yourself up for success with these easy daily challenges. Trust us, we're all about celebrating and indulging, but these simple, attainable goals will help you in more ways than just your waistline.

First, remember to breathe. From flashing lights to holiday parades, the holiday season is the busiest of the year, and no matter how many times you promise yourself that this year will be different, it almost always seems busier. Take a step back each day and breathe. Give yourself ten minutes of "you" time every day to decrease stress.

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You and your guests will be more likely to reach for a glass of colorful Raspberry-Lime Infused Water when it's presented in a beautiful pitcher. The more water you drink, the better.

Stress can lead to overeating, especially during the holidays. Wake up 20 minutes before you normally do to have time to plan and prepare for the day. It will reduce stress and, in turn, reduce the urge to overeat.

These days it's harder and harder for folks to socialize without an iPhone or smart device being pulled out immediately. If you want to have a healthier holiday, try collecting the family’s devices at the door and breaking out some board games. Quality time spent with family is a life lived healthier.

Save all of your holiday eating for the actual day of the holiday. No need to splurge for two months straight.

Is football watching one of your holiday traditions (Rose Bowl, anyone)? Why not make a game out of the games? "Hey guys, for each field goal let's agree to go outside for 5 minutes and do something active!" Get everyone moving in a creative way to help shake off those holiday feelings of sluggishness.

It's easier not to overindulge during the holidays when you have someone to talk you off the "third serving of garlic-loaded mashed potatoes ledge." Step outside and get some fresh air with a friend, or join the Cooking Light Diet Facebook group to get advice from others on how they're tackling the holidays.

While you’re waiting on your dish to finish in the oven, or have a couple free minutes here and there, get your body moving by doing a round of pushups, squats, or your exercise of choice. A little bit goes a long way, and eventually all the mini-sessions will add up.

Instead of giving in to the post-holiday meal coma, take a walk outside to reinvigorate your brain (and burn some calories).

If you put your greens, salads, and healthy veggies before the starchy and cheesy sides, you'll have less room on your plate for the high-calorie sides.

See More: Veggie Sides

Dole out meal planning and cooking tasks to the whole family. With everyone involved, even if it's something small like setting the table or putting cranberry sauce in a serving container, meals will get pulled together quicker. Plus, everyone will feel happier knowing they had a hand in bringing the meal together.

Be cautious of liquid calories and save your indulgences where they count the most. To keep yourself in check, sip your second drink at a slower rate and just say no to the third. You'll thank yourself in the morning when you're able to make your AM workout.

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If you have a big night of holiday appetizers and looming, squeeze in an exercise session earlier that day. You’ll feel more refreshed, energized, and ready to take on—and truly enjoy—the holiday festivities.

Whether you’re hitting up the sidewalk shops or a mall, shopping can work up a large appetite. Instead of filling up on fast food meals, pack healthy snack options like nuts and an apple. Find more portable snack ideas. 

Instead of socializing with the appetizers all night, grab a couple bites and walk around, meeting and greeting with new people. You’ll gain new friends and keep off those unwanted pounds. A win-win!

This year, make only one dessert. Yes, really. Make it a super special one—one that delights all the senses, like this Pecan Sticky Wedges recipe. That way, you and your holiday guests won't fill up on multiple treats and can instead enjoy one magnificent dessert.

See More: Stunning Holiday Desserts​

Don’t let the cold weather scare you. This is the perfect time of year to go out on a leisurely hike. You’ll get a breath of fresh air, burn some calories, and most likely calm down your stress level. Reward yourself with a nice cozy fire and a feel-good holiday movie. ​

See More: Winter Exercise Survival Guide

Holiday eating is often the time of excess and overindulgence, so keep it healthy by offering smaller servings. Need help determining what a proper portion should look like? We've got you covered!

Strap a pedometer on each family member, and see who can move the most on those typically sedentary post-holiday days. Winner gets to pick the movie for family movie night.

Instead of circling around the shopping mall or the grocery store for the closest spot next to the door, look for a spot in the back of the parking lot. Not only will you get a few extra steps in, but you’ll also avoid frustrating parking lot situations and most likely save time.

Whether it’s a subscription to the Cooking Light Diet, a gym membership, a pedometer, or even a water bottle—asking for something healthy is a great way to ensure you’ll kick off the new year on a healthy note. ​

So many baking recipes make more than enough for one family. Instead of keeping (and eating) the entire batch, wrap them up and give them to your family, friends, colleagues, or someone in need. Learn more about our Bake it Forward initiative.

An entertaining faux pas? Maybe. However, if you leave the butter and salt shakers off the table, you won't be tempted to over salt or over spread.

Part of being healthy is being creative. Host a post-holiday potluck and create delicious, innovative dishes with these fun ideas. Or, put a twist on leftovers to give yourself a tasty meal plan throughout the week. ​

Be the queen of the sides this year. From Brussels sprouts to veggie-packed salads, you know there will at least be one healthy option at the dinner party you’re attending if you bring a nutritious dish.

See More: Holiday Sides

Yes, it is a good thing to taste as you go when cooking, but there’s a big difference between tasting and consuming half of the meal. Chewing gum, drinking water, and throwing on some of your favorite holiday tunes are great ways to distract yourself from eating too much while you cook. ​

Whew! You made it through one holiday, now on to the next. Take some time before the new year, to rest and rejuvenate, so you can start January fresh.

Eat slowly and truly savor your food; the plate isn't going anywhere. This will help prevent you from overeating and allow you to fully enjoy the various textures and flavors of your meal.

Don’t forget to have fun during the holiday season and let go a little. Don’t beat yourself up over that glass of wine or piece of pie. It’s okay to splurge a little during the holiday season. As life coach Martha Beck says, "Never eat anything you don't enjoy, and truly enjoy everything you eat.” Remember to have fun, stay mindful, and enjoy the season.

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