How to Avoid the Christmas Cramming

December 7th 2009

To avoid overlooking details celebrating the season, we already should have something in mind or idea on how we want to spend Christmas with our loved ones. Cramming will not only give stress to us and to those around us but emotions are quite high during this season as well.

1. Form sensible plans ahead of time - if you are planning a big get-together which entails a lot of cooking, find at least a day to peruse recipes and decide which will be included in the menu. The decorations also at home could be well thought and not spruce up at the last moment.

2. Narrow down your gift list - if you have a somewhat large family to shop for, your level of time, emotional and monetary stress can be incredibly high.

So, think about approaching your family regarding your current practice of exchanging gifts. Everybody in the family gets a gift that one or more family member had the budget and time to pick well.
- If your money is a little tight to buy a gift, try handmade gifts or second hand (gifts you received and most likely you will not use or not much of your taste, recycle).
- Wrap the gifts soon as you bought them, so you will not be tempted to keep them for yourself. It will also help save time that can be spared for other must-do in your list.

3. Avoid food temptations when you are watching your weight - or for health reasons. You could program early the kinds of food that will be set in your table for you and your family.
- Prepare your menus carefully ahead so you will not overbuy food and avoid waste.
- Stash some smaller packs of cookies, nuts or chocolates rather the large size packs - any scraps will then stay together. These junk foods will distract your appetite from consuming foods from your usual consumption.
- Plan just as much food as your family and guests need.
- Chill leftovers such as cake, meat, and mince pies - you’re less prone to eat them in an instant of temptation. Cakes could easily add calorie in your system particularly during the season. You could easily gain weight.
- Give any leftovers to your guests to carry off. This way, you won't be tempted to eat more if there is not much food around.