15 Healthy Habits That Will Get You Through the Holidays

The winter holidays are some of the most gluttonous, booze-fueled, exercise-free days of the whole year. But, for folks trying to live a healthier life, there are land mines. However, you don't have to avoid festivities if your aim is to stay healthy. Being mindful and having a backup plan will keep you on track.

One healthy habit during the holidays is to focus on fun, not the rich, sugar-heavy food. Hit the dance floor, offer to be the door greeter and take coats, and mingle, mingle, mingle. Nourish your soul; stay clear of the calories.

Be mindful of how easy it is to get carried away with alcohol. Before you get to the party, decide on your drink limit. If you'll be there awhile, start with sparkling water. Switch to champagne for the toast. Or get your drink on, but after the second one, ask for juice or water.

Forewarned is forearmed. Pre-made healthy food is your weapon against gluttony. During some down time, prep healthy grab-and-go meals or pre-cut ingredients for healthy family meals. Save your gluttony for parties and big, festive dinners—and enjoy every bite of all of it.

Less time, more stress. It's hard to think of adding more exercise to your already busy days, but you'll be glad you did—not only for the calorie burn but also for the stress relief and appetite suppression. You'll also be less inclined to indulge if you know you're already signed up for spin class the next morning.

Sleep, like exercise, will keep your health on track during the holidays. You eat more insulin-spiking carbs if your brain isn't well-rested. So, sleep in when you can and go to bed early when you can. Also, take naps!

Plan your home meals ahead, as well as what you'll eat when you go out to parties or meals. If you've got back-to-back engagements, go for the lightest meal you can at the first and indulge at the second. Or the other way around.

If you begin to feel run down or if you've already had enough for one day, it's OK to say no. You don't have to attend everything you're invited to (even if you want to). You can always take a rain check. Pass on anything you're just iffy about, including the office Christmas party if it seems like more effort than it's worth. Or combine yes and no: Show up and leave early.

If you're the type of person who will eat if food is put in front of you, station yourself across the room from the food table. It's too easy to overindulge after mindless picking and snacking. And think about what you do choose to eat. Only pick up the stuff that's delicious. Don't think you have to finish every bite if it's just meh.

If you're headed to a potluck or if the hostess says to bring whatever you want, this is your chance to make sure at least something there is healthy and light. Go for a mixed, chopped salad, or a crudité with a variety of dipping sauces. Leave desserts to someone else.

Endless holiday parties mean you'll be getting home late. Don't skip your nightly routines, such as washing and moisturizing your face, taking vitamins and probiotics, or planking before bed. Push through and stick to your routines.

That goes for teeth, too. It's easy to just fall into bed after a late night, but those amazing desserts and the red wines will stay on your teeth, along with the bacteria that feeds off the sugars. Take your time to brush every night.

Don't waste calories and your health on food courts. Eat before you go shopping. You'll be better able to resist mall cinnamon rolls and Chinese buffets, which will keep you on track with your health.

Don't add stress and anxiety to your health concerns during the holidays. Embrace the chaos and madness that comes this time of year. For many, it's one calendar commitment after the next, one that requires a gift or a dish, a special outfit or a note. Do your best and enjoy the moment.

Don't spend time and emotional energy on worrying about whether you're dressed right for the occasion. Wear what you love, what makes you feel like you, what makes you comfortable. For some, that's sequins, high heels and a full face of makeup. For others, that's comfortable shoes, a cape and natural hair. Be you.

Truly, it's the thought that counts. Don't worry about spending too little, getting a duplicate or presenting something the recipient doesn't actually want. Pick up what you think they'll like and what's in the budget, wrap it and put it under the tree.