4 Holiday Survival Tips You Didn’t Know You Needed

Holidays are here (!!!), and with them come all the things—festive lights, never-ending to-do lists, Aunt Lisa’s mystery casserole (why does it always have sausage?), and the sneaky snacks that seem to multiply when you blink. As someone who’s been helping women through physical and mental health journeys for over 17 years, I’ve got your back. I’ll keep it quick because I know you only have a few minutes to read this before you move on to the next task on your list :).

Here are my Top 4 Lesser-Known Holiday Survival Tips to keep you sane, healthy-ish, and still very much enjoying actual pie (because we don’t skip pie here, OK?).

1. The “Eat Before You Eat” Hack

You know how they say never grocery shop hungry? The same applies to holiday parties. Before you head out, have a little pre-party snack with protein, fat, and fiber. Think a hard-boiled egg + a handful of almonds + some berries. This helps you show up as your most rational self at the buffet table instead of the “I accidentally ate 12 mini stuffed mushrooms before dinner” version.

2. Hydration Station (But Make It Fancy)

I know, I know. “Drink water” isn’t exactly groundbreaking advice. But hear me out—make it special. Get yourself some sparkling water, throw in frozen cranberries or pomegranate seeds, and sip it in your fanciest glass. My fav, is flavored seltzer.  Staying hydrated not only helps with digestion but also keeps you from confusing thirst with hunger (which is like 80% of holiday snacking).

3. Movement = Magic (Even If It’s Silly)

Let’s clear this up: Movement doesn’t have to mean going to the gym in between cookie exchanges. It can be dancing around the kitchen while you bake, walking a couple of laps around the block with hot cocoa in hand, or doing a 2-minute stretch between gift-wrapping marathons. The goal isn’t to “burn off the stuffing”; it’s to keep your body happy, your mood boosted, and your mind clear. Bonus points if you rope the family into a post-dinner stroll. Or better yet, go by yourself, you need some alone time ;).

4. Plan for the Crash Moments

Picture this: You’ve just crushed hosting your family dinner, and now you’re standing in the kitchen eating leftover mashed potatoes straight from the pot. Sound familiar? (Hi, guilty.) Here’s your fix: Have a stash of quick, comforting, nutrient-packed snacks ready for these moments. My fave? Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of granola or a handful of cashews with some berries. It’s like dessert, but with protein to keep you balanced.

BONUS TIP (because I love you): Give yourself permission to say no. No to seconds. No to the 4th-holiday cookie exchange. No to that thing you feel obligated to do but really don’t want to. You don’t need to send out the perfect holiday cards and you don’t need to do EVERY holiday event there is.  Protecting your energy is self-care—not selfish.

So girl, these aren’t your usual “just avoid the bread basket” tips because, honestly? Who even likes bread baskets without butter? You deserve practical advice that works in real life—with real butter, real fun, and zero guilt.  Sending you all the love and light to get through this holiday season without a migraine.

xoxo

Jackie