Support: What Do The Holidays Mean To You?

Support: What Do The Holidays Mean To You?

Holidays! What comes to your mind upon hearing this glittering word? Visions of scrumptious stuffing, pools of creamy gravy, warm buttered rolls and pumpkin and pecan pies?

If so, perhaps it is time to consider whether a short-term indulgence is worth all of the great efforts it can begin to undo. As a been-there-done-that person, I'd say no. How about you?

Rather than centering your holidays on food-filled festivities, you can focus on your family, friends, and a time of celebrating the healthy lifestyle you have chosen, perhaps even inspiring others to do the same thing. Allow the holidays to affirm your commitment to your health and fitness. Create new traditions for yourself that do not include food as your primary focus, such as walking on the beach, playing outdoor sports with kids and grown-ups and, most importantly, attending support groups.

During this busy time of year, we become overextended. But before contemplating the possibility of skipping your next support group meeting, remember that going to the meeting and spending time with other members is the best way to reinforce those healthy habits.

To fully enjoy the holidays you do not have to eat food choices that you don't want to only because someone is pushing you to eat. Spend quality time focusing on the relationship you share with people at your holiday get-together. By limiting the distraction of food, you can become focused on the things that really matter to you-your family, friends, health, fitness, and your healthy lifestyle.

-Photo courtesy of silvermarquis

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Cathy Wilson, PCC, BCC, had RNY surgery in 2001 and lost 147 pounds. Cathy is a regular contributor to the OH Blog and authored the "Mind Matters" column in ObesityHelp Magazine. Cathy is a licensed pilot and loves flying. She is a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC). Read more articles by Cathy!