We never gave much credence to “gateway drugs” like marijuana putting children on the road to drug addiction for life. That idea just doesn’t seem plausible. But what about Halloween candy as the “gateway drug” leading to months of overeating from October until Valentine’s Day? Possible? My partner, Sharon, and I have talked about it and we think we can see a pattern over the years.
The holiday season can be equally full of joy and full of anxiety. Much is expected of us during this time—decorating, gifting, hosting—and none of us is Martha Stewart! We don’t know about you, but anxiety brings on the munchies, and the two of us never go for the fruits and veggies when we are stressed. For us it’s nuts, cookies, candy, and cheese, the quad-fecta of reliable weight gain.
So, what can we do during this joyous/stressful time of year? One great strategy is to calm-the-heck-down. There is always yoga and meditation to take the edge off, but our best approach is to address the problem directly: Stop procrastinating and get organized. Making lists and checking items off, just like Santa, may give you a sense of completion and calm you need, assuring that you will make it until February 14 without blowing up the scale. Happy Organized Holidays!
Stop Losing and Win 