Surviving the Easter Blowout!

Easter is the first real break since the Christmas and New Year holidays. And if you’re like most, you’re part relieved and part excited. The rest is an internal battle of will; there’s the little devil on one shoulder whispering sweet chocolate nothings in your ear and on the other, a defiant viking warrior ready to conquer the social event blowout!

Struggle not my friends. Holiday time and social engagements can be well navigated with some good prior planning, a sprinkle of willpower and a relaxed mindset. 

Here’s a quick and simple list of ‘rules’ to help you get through the holidays without the big blowout and still enjoy yourself …no one wants to be the party pooper!

1. I know it’s cliche but MODERATION - everything in moderation. This first rule is where your sprinkle of willpower comes into play.
2. Relax, don’t panic! There’s no need to overthink it when you put in some prior planning. Work out:

• Where you’re going; someone’s home, a restaurant, a BBQ/picnic etc. Which are the gatherings where you can control what you consume and which are the ones you need to simply enjoy in moderation?
• What you’re doing; will you need snacks, nibbles, plates/cutlery etc. Don’t get caught out eating crappy take-away from a petrol station or roadside truck on a long drive, hike or day at the beach. If you think you MIGHT need snacks, prepare them and take them.
• If you’re going away, always take your protein shakes and quick easy snack like nuts with you.
• If you’re going to someone’s home and you can take food, make your healthy nibbles and cook a dish to add to the spread …then eat it! This way you’ll always have at least your own food as a healthy option (remember to make enough to share!). 
• Heading to a canape event? Eat a healthy small meal or a protein shake before you go and then enjoy a small amount of canapes; you won’t need to chase the waiter like a seagull to hot chips. You’ll eat less, trust me!
• Want dessert or can’t resist the easter eggs? Make peace with yourself and have it …in MODERATION!

3. Want to toast with the rest of 'em and indulge in some boozy cocktails? Sure, follow the ‘one-drink-one-water’ rule and where possible, go for the spritzers and soda water based options rather than the super sugary ones.

4. Stay hydrated. Sometimes thirsty is hungry and you’ll end up eating more trying to quench it. Take your water with you.

5. Move, walk, run, help with the clean-up. Whatever you can do to fit in some movement, do it. You don’t have to take your home gym with you or get up at the crack of dawn to work out (unless you WANT to) but try to stay active.

6. Relax, enjoy and have fun!

Holidays should be enjoyable. Plan ahead now and shop, chop, cook and pack - put yourself in a winning position and avoid the blowout. Happy Easter everyone!

Simone Louise is a Lifestyle Coach based in Sydney who helps busy families create household routines to transform their health physically and emotionally, personally and professionally. Learn more about Simone here