The following is a guest post by Zenergy member and Health Coach Jody Moss.

The season of Holiday Debauchery is upon us. It starts with Thanksgiving and goes non-stop until the new year. Let’s rev up our engines and stay on course with stern determination for a healthier holiday! Here’s how:

DRINK MORE WATER
Water is nature’s best tool for flushing out toxins to boost your immune system. It keeps your skin hydrated and clear, increases energy, reduces fatigue and helps you stay regular. A holiday plus: It fills your tummy so you don’t feel as hungry! Dehydration can often be mistaken for hunger.

To minimize stress and anxiety, stay hydrated. Dehydration can make it harder to concentrate, causing short-term memory loss, which leads to anxiety and moodiness – the last thing that we need during the holidays.

Aim for a one-to-one ratio: one alcohol drink/punch or one holiday cookie to one glass of water. When you first arrive at a party, sip water along with that glass of bubbly.

Don’t like the taste of plain water? Beef up that glass of holiday cheer with a slice of lemon, toss in some berries, orange or cucumber slices. Try it with bubbly water and you might actually believe there is a Santa Claus when you wake up hangover-free the next morning!

WEAR SKINNY JEANS

Everyone wants to enjoy the festivities! But try to limit your splurges to once a week or to certain parties. This season, break out your favorite form-fitting skinny jeans, tight skirt or whatever outfit makes you feel lean and trim to holiday gatherings. You won’t want to go back for seconds!

FEAST OR FAMINE
Don’t even think of skipping breakfast and lunch to save calories for a big holiday meal or party. By the time you finally eat, you’ll be starving and guaranteed to overindulge. Fasting causes low blood sugar, which increases cortisol levels, causing cravings for sweet, salty or fatty foods. Start your day with some healthy fat (nuts or nut butter, avocado or coconut, for example) and protein (such as eggs). Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and nuts during the day. And remember to drink lots of water!

 DON’T SKIP THE GYM
Hit the gym three times a week or more, if possible. If you’re short on time, do interval training to get the most bang for your buck. Try short 1:1 intervals – pushing hard for 30 seconds followed by 30 seconds of complete rest. Start with the imaginary jump rope for 30 seconds then take a 30-second break. Continue this pattern with push-ups, forward lunges (making sure tp engage your core and keep your knee over your ankle on your bending leg). Do each of these exercises three times with a 30-second rest in between.

If you do overindulge, let go of the guilt! Enjoy your sweet indulgence and get going in the right direction again the following day. Get yourself back in the game by drinking enough water throughout the day.