How to Practice Hygge for Meaningful Holidays

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Gulping sandwiches while standing at the sink so that you can rush out to mail those last holiday packages. Ordering pizza (again) because you’re just too exhausted and time-pressed to think about—let alone concoct—a healthy meal from scratch. If either of these scenarios sounds familiar to you, you’re not alone. This time of year is crazy-busy for most people, for various reasons. I wrote about mindful eating last year. This blog post is different because it’s not about nutrition as much as its about enjoying special meals at this special time of year. It’s unfortunate that all of our holiday-related activities seem to take our minds and hearts away from the spirit of the holidays. With all the rushing around, wrapping, mailing, card-writing, party-going, cookie-baking (and oh yes, going to work in between all of that), it’s no wonder that many of us feel on the brink of losing what we are seeking during this season: peace, reflection, family and friends, generosity and joy.

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Not So Sweet

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Whether you’re one of those folks who is still working your way through leftover Halloween candy you bought (or pilfered from your kid’s stash) or have already begun laying in a supply of seasonal candies selected from the massive display of treats at your local retailer, chances are this time of year brings more than the usual amount of sugar into your life. How much sugar is too much? It depends on whom you ask.

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11 Healthy DIY Holiday Gifts

There is one thing I consistently avoid during the holiday season. I refuse to give candy, chocolate or gourmet desserts as a gift. Okay, maybe it is the “dietitian side” of me that just can’t go there (and let’s be honest, most people would be surprised if I did), but honestly during a season of indulging and decadent foods, do we really need gifts that encourage more of the same?

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Troubleshooting Holiday Tummy Trouble

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Does the holiday season give you more tummy trouble than usual? (And by this, I do not mean the increasing size of one’s tummy, but rather, increasing incidence of discomfort.) You’re not alone. With all the party food, higher-than-usual alcohol intake, and yes—stress—lots of times our GI systems bear the brunt of the season’s soirees. Here are a few ideas for minimizing tummy issues so you can feel healthy and ready for all the festive fun this season.

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How to Host a Plant-based Dinner Party

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You’ve committed to throwing a holiday dinner party this year and you’re currently planning out your menu. Chances are, you know of at least one of your friends or family members who don’t eat meat (maybe more) and you feel paralyzed on how to create a crowd-pleasing menu.

Fear not.

With a few extra minutes of planning you’ll be able to easily adjust your menu to have offerings for everyone in attendance.

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