Yes, we all look forward to the holidays. For most of us, however, this time of year is viewed with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. Oh, the food, the decadent food! The liberty to indulge because, after all, it only happens once a year. But after the halls have been un-decked, the boughs of holly taken down, we’re left with a fear of scales, a distaste for mirrors and a tumultuous relationship with last year’s jeans. What if I told you this was not inevitable? What if I said that a few small adjustments to your holiday routine could leave you satisfied without the usual resulting guilt? I bet you’d be taking notes.

It’s a pretty simple formula. And I’ll admit, it doesn’t let you eat with reckless abandon. But you won’t feel deprived either.

Step one: Portion control. If you’re the kind of person who wants to try every dish in the Thanksgiving spread, go for it! Just make sure you keep your portions small – two to three bites – as if you’re eating tapas. If you’re like me and you’ve been looking forward to your Aunt’s truffled oreos all year, stick to the healthier options (salad, sweet potatoes, lean cuts of turkey) for the main course and then splurge on the dessert. Either way, just remember it’s about give and take. You can have what you want; just make it count.

Step two: Exercise. Just like the food guidelines, your exercise regimen can be flexible too. I find it’s easiest to combat winter weight gain by bumping up a consistent regimen in length and intensity for the week or two preceding a big holiday (this strategy works for any event you anticipate splurging for). This works well because it preemptively mitigates the effects of your holiday meal(s) and also minimizes your post-turkey guilt. Plus, once you’ve gotten the momentum of longer, tougher workouts going, it’s a lot easier to keep it up when you’re back on a regular schedule. The dread of starting a New Year’s training plan will grow significantly smaller if you’ve already started! And I know it’s not always enticing to hit the gym on Turkey Day, but instead of taking that afternoon nap, take advantage of the family you may have close by and go on a long walk. It won't just raise your heart rate; it will help you make the most of the loved ones you may not see very often.

So, please enjoy your food, friends, family and fun this holiday season. By following these simple tips, you may just make it the best one ever.