More Jolly, Less Jiggle.

Tis' the season for cookies, cakes, wine and cheese.

Holiday parties fill up your weekends, and workouts get put on the back burner.  

Or completely off the stove.

So how can you enjoy your stuffing without feeling stuffed? Enjoy the social engagements without adding to the scale? Here are a few TTT tips and tricks for the holiday season...

1. Get OFF the couch. 
One large reason our society is dealing with an obesity epidemic is because we lead a very sedentary lifestyle. We (well, most of us) drive to work seated. At the office we sit all day long. We drive home, seated. And then make dinner and collapse on the couch... probably laying down. Regardless we need to move more. It's not about running a marathon or doing 1,000 jumping jacks. It's about taking small steps. Go for a walk outside. Every hour walk around your office OR take the stairs. Bike to work if you can. Walk to the convenience store instead of drive. Hit the gym for 30 min. Don't think of it as this overwhelming feat. Instead, make your goal to move. I promise, no one ever regretted it once it was done.

2. Eat. 
The biggest misconception is to starve yourself silly before a party or event. Wrong. Showing up to a cocktail party when you've eaten one saltine all day is going to do you no good. Eat mindfully during the day and you'll be sure to keep it in check at night. TTT tip: Prepare and bring a healthy appetizer! You can rest assured that there will be one nutritious snack at the party :) 

3. Try something NEW. 
This time of year sites such as Groupon, Bloomspot and LivingSocial are chock FULL of amazing deals. Check out some fitness related ones in your area. You most likely will have some time after Christmas but before you must head back to work. Beat the January crowd and try something new! Did someone say salsa lessons... 

4. Do something for you. 
Every year around this time we run around like crazy people. Last minute shopping, racking up credit cards, furiously wrapping presents. This year make it a point to do something for yourself. For every couple of gifts you give to others, treat yourself to something. Whether it's a pedicure or an afternoon walk, the key to happiness is loving, appreciating and acknowledging yourself and your worth. 

5. Give yourself a break. 

One of the most influential thoughts I heard about the holidays relating to health...   

Thanksgiving is one day. Christmas is one day. New Years eve is one day. You are not going to sabotage your entire healthy lifestyle or nutrition plan in three days.

Focus on the other 362 days. Less worry, more enjoyment.

So there you go! My 5 TTT tips for staying sane and healthy this holiday season.

What is one way you stay on track during this time of year? Do you stay relaxed or become stressed out?

-TTT