Why You Shouldn’t Skip Breakfast Before a Holiday Feast

With holiday gatherings and big meals in full swing, it’s tempting to skip breakfast to “save room” for the main event. But here’s the thing: skipping that first meal can set you up for overeating and feeling less than your best later on.

If you’re like many women navigating the holiday season, you’re trying to find balance - enjoying the moments without feeling sluggish or overly full. A balanced breakfast is your secret weapon for feeling energized, making mindful choices, and avoiding the post-meal regret.

Here’s why breakfast is a must before a big meal:

1. A Balanced Plate Keeps You Satisfied
   Starting your day with carbs, fats, and protein helps stabilize your blood sugar, keeping hunger in check. You’re far less likely to arrive at dinner ravenous, which can help you enjoy your meal without overdoing it.

2. Avoid Overindulging
   When you skip breakfast, hunger can take over by the time you sit down for a big meal. This often leads to snacking on appetizers and piling up your plate, leaving you feeling overly full and uncomfortable.

3. Make Better Food Choices
   A balanced breakfast helps you stay mindful. When you’ve nourished your body earlier, you can savor your holiday favorites in moderation, without feeling the need to go overboard.

What does a balanced breakfast look like?

• Carbs: Sourdough toast, oatmeal, or fruit for energy
• Proteins: Eggs, Greek yogurt, or lean meats to keep you full
• Fats: Avocado, nut butter, or seeds for long-lasting satisfaction

Here’s a festive idea: Try sourdough toast with almond butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It feels indulgent but keeps you on track.

If you’re ready to enjoy holiday meals without the guilt or discomfort of overindulging, it starts with one simple step: don’t skip breakfast!

Want more tips on navigating holiday eating? Let’s chat. My program is designed to help you enjoy the season while staying on track with your goals.

Don’t Let Winter Slow You Down: Easy Ways to Keep Moving

Winter has a way of making us want to cozy up on the couch, doesn’t it? But staying active this season doesn’t have to feel like a chore - and it can actually help you feel more energized, less stressed, and healthier overall.

I recently shared some of my favorite tips for staying active during winter with my clients, and I wanted to make sure you had them too:

1️⃣ Find an indoor routine you love: Whether it’s yoga, strength training, or dancing in your living room, make it fun!

2️⃣ Layer up and get outside: A brisk walk or jog in the fresh air can boost your mood (and you get to enjoy that winter scenery).

3️⃣ Set a winter activity goal: Whether it’s walking 10k steps daily or prepping for a spring race, having a goal keeps you motivated.

4️⃣ Make it social: Grab a friend or family member to keep you accountable and make it more enjoyable.

5️⃣ Embrace small movements: Even 10 minutes of stretching or light exercise can make a big difference.

Take Action This Winter

Winter doesn’t have to be a time of slowing down - it can be a season to build momentum! If you’re ready to take ACTION and create a plan that fits your lifestyle, check out my coaching program here.

5 Simple Tips for Mindful Holiday Drinking

The holidays are here, and with them come festive drinks, parties, and plenty of opportunities to indulge. But guess what? You don’t have to feel like you’re sacrificing your health to enjoy the season.

Here are a few simple strategies to help you sip smart and stay on track:

1. Set a Limit for Yourself

Decide ahead of time how many drinks you’ll have, and stick to it. Creating a boundary allows you to enjoy the moment without going overboard.

2. Alternate Alcohol with Water

For every alcoholic drink, have a glass of water. This keeps you hydrated, slows your pace, and helps you feel great the next day.

3. Try Mocktails or Light Drinks

Skip the heavy, sugary cocktails and opt for lighter options like a vodka soda or wine spritzer. Or, explore festive mocktails for all the flavor and none of the alcohol.

4. Be Present in the Moment

Focus on the people, the laughter, and the memories—not just the drink in your hand. Mindful drinking is key to truly enjoying the season.

5. Savor Every Sip

Drink slowly, enjoy the flavors, and listen to your body. You’ll find it easier to stop when you’ve had enough.

Take Action This Holiday Season

If you’re ready to make lasting changes in your health, let’s chat! Click on email, and we can schedule a one-on-one call to see if my program is a fit for you.

Looking for a festive way to celebrate without the alcohol? I've got you covered! Download my FREE Mocktail Recipe Guide here.

The Guilt-Free Guide to Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving might be behind us, but those leftovers are staring at you from the fridge, calling your name. For midlife women who want to stay on track while still enjoying the holiday vibes, there’s no need to feel stuck between indulgence and your health goals. Let’s talk about how you can make the most of those leftovers - deliciously and guilt-free.

First things first: balance is your best friend. Instead of loading your plate with just stuffing and pie, try mixing in fresh sides. Pair those hearty leftovers with crunchy veggies or a crisp salad. This not only lightens the meal but leaves you feeling energized, not sluggish.

Portion size matters, too. Smaller servings let you savor every bite without overdoing it. Focus on truly enjoying the flavors - you’ll be surprised how much more satisfied you feel when you slow down and make each forkful count.

And let’s get creative! Leftovers don’t have to feel like reruns. That turkey can transform into a protein-packed salad or a cozy soup. Roasted veggies? Toss them into a nourishing grain bowl. It’s all about keeping your meals fresh and avoiding that post-Thanksgiving slump.

By taking these simple steps, you’ll feel proud of your choices, stay on track, and be ready to tackle the week ahead. Who says leftovers can’t work in your favor?

Feeling Stuck? Reflect on What’s Already Working!

Life gets busy, and it’s so easy to overlook all the little victories you’re racking up every single day. When you’re juggling family, work, and trying to take care of yourself, it’s tempting to fixate on big, far-off goals—like losing that last 10 pounds or sticking to a perfect routine. But here’s the truth: the magic is in the small wins.

Did you carve out time for a workout this week? Show up on time for something important? Take even a small step to prioritize yourself - like a 10-minute walk, going to bed earlier or joining my Chilly Challenge for December? Those seemingly "small" things aren’t small at all. They’re the foundation of success, and they deserve to be celebrated.

Progress is not about being perfect; it’s about consistency. You’re going to miss a workout or make a less-than-perfect meal choice. That’s okay. What matters is that you keep showing up, making small, intentional choices every day. That’s how real, lasting change happens.

And here’s a little secret: reflection is a superpower. Taking a moment to pause and recognize what you haveaccomplished—no matter how small—keeps you motivated and builds confidence. It’s proof that you’re capable and moving forward, even if progress feels slow.

So, what are you proud of this week? Think about it. Write it down. Share it with someone (I’d love to hear it!). Those wins, no matter how tiny they seem, are worth celebrating.

Next steps?
If you’re ready to build on those wins and keep moving toward your goals, let’s chat. Comment below or reach out via email. I also offer FREE 20 minute consult calls. Schedule one here. Sometimes, a little extra support makes all the difference.