Never Fear, Be the Holiday Hero this Year!

by Lindsey Sexton - October 26, 2020

With or without the threat of a pandemic, the holiday season seems to bring a little extra stress to our lives. Starting in October with that first Halloween candy binge, we feast our way through the holidays up until the last calorie laden hoorah of year which can affect our wallets and our waistlines in frightful ways.

Here are a few ideas to help you get off to a good start this holiday season.

1. Start planning holiday spending early. Think ahead to the expenses you will incur. Set a budget for those expenses and stick to it.
   
   
2. Consider starting a new tradition in your neighborhood as an alternative to Trick or Treating:
   • Walk from house to house, admiring Halloween decorations at a distance.
   • Go on an outdoor Halloween-themed scavenger hunt.
   • Hold an outdoor costume parade (spacing each family 6 feet apart) so everyone can show off their costumes.
   • Host an outdoor Halloween movie night with friends or neighbors so everyone can spread out and enjoy good company.
3. Have a plan for family meals and gatherings. Holiday binging is often uncomfortable and ongoing from October through December. Plan to have a few bites of your favorites knowing that you’ll be able to have the same foods just about any other time throughout the holidays. This will lessen the “get it while you can” feeling that urges you to eat more than you should.
   
   
4. Build in time for your favorite physical activity. The holidays typically pull our focus toward others so try to remember to take a bit of time for yourself and your health. A quick walk can help you shake off any holiday angst or help you pep up when you're feeling a bit tired.
   
   
5. Wear a cloth mask and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently, any time you are around people who do not live with you. Or better yet, use your smartphone to video chat with those you love to visit with rather than gathering in person.