Become the Ultimate Holiday Party Host
You are probably looking at the title of this blog and wondering why I am writing about being the best holiday party host. True, I was an event planner in my previous life, and while I still love coordinating workshops, I am not here to tell you how to create the perfect holiday celebration. Instead, I want to help you to nourish your body and mind as you entertain others this holiday season. The goal is to maintain your sanity and be your best self!
Whether you are planning your company’s holiday celebration or organizing logistics for numerous clients’ cocktail receptions, this time of year can be very stressful and daunting. You work longer hours, and you HATE your shoes. It is so much easier to grab the appetizers, the buffet leftovers at midnight, or the red velvet cake, because the last thing you want to do is cook. You barely see your family and friends, and by the time you get home, that glass or (let’s be real here) that bottle of wine has your name written all over it. You just want to curl up in bed and pass out, but you can’t stop thinking about your endless checklist, and your mind can’t shut down.
I totally get it and remember these days as if it were yesterday. Yes, the holiday season can be overwhelming, but it IS possible to take care of yourself as you organize flawless events. In fact, it’s imperative to put yourself first at this time of year, so you don’t make yourself sick. Take a deep breath and focus on the small, positive steps you can take daily to fuel your body and mind during these stressful months.
These are my top ten tips to help you conquer the holiday season activities rather than allowing these activities to control your life!
Take advantage of a grocery pick-up and delivery service – Check out Instacart which partners with several stores. Send someone to pick up your grocery order or have them delivered right to your home. The first step to adding more nourishing, foods to your life is to actually have the staples at home. Check out my healthy kitchen makeover to help get you started!
Purchase low-maintenance vegetables and fruit– Buy veggies that don’t need to be chopped, such as cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, persian baby cucumbers, snow peas, broccoli, and pre-packaged greens.
Create bistro boxes – Check out these no-cooking-required bistro boxes that you can bring to the office for a quick lunch. Stock up on raw nuts, seeds, and nut butters. Try these nutrient-rich crackers (my favorite is the everything flavor!) to dip in hummus and guacamole cups.
Use a meal delivery service – Make it super simple for you and try out a local service such as Fresh Meal Plan that offers a variety of options!
Write in a gratitude journal – Rather than wake up and immediately feel overwhelmed by your upcoming to-do list, take a few deep breaths and write down 3 things you are grateful for that day.
Use an app to do bursts of movement in the morning – Try the free 7 Minute Workout App. Get up 20 minutes earlier and start your day with a natural high!
Make a breakfast smoothie – Include fiber, protein, and healthy fat so you stay full and energized. A fast, super simple recipe is: chocolate greens, protein powder, half of an avocado, frozen berries (buy in bulk), and a half of a banana or pear.
Turn off your computer and put down your phone when you eat – Yes, I know you just want to get to the next task on your to-do list, but give yourself permission to take a short break. If you can’t find a place to eat away from your computer, shut it down for 10 minutes, so you can be fully present, actually taste the food, and digest it properly.
Hide a water bottle in a corner – Since you can’t carry the bottle with you in front of clients, take sips before and during the event. These Hidratespark water bottles have reminders and track your water.
Purchase an alarm clock - Put your phone away and avoid those late night emails that will keep you up at night. There is nothing you can do at that time anyway. Give yourself full permission to rest.
Remember, you don't have to change your life all at once. Choose one of the tips and build on that slowly. The goal is progress, so focus on what you can do versus what you can’t do. Every step you take will help you feel better this holiday season, so you can become the ultimate holiday party host!
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Leave a comment and let us know what’s one small step you will take to feel your best this holiday season?