NYE CELEBRATION IDEAS + HEALTHIER HOLIDAY CLASSIC DRINKS

As Christmas plans are made and enjoyed, you might be wondering what’s next?! Well, New Year’s Eve, of course! Do you have any traditions for the last night of the year? While I do not have big traditions, this is my favorite holiday of the year. I love wearing silly party hats, dressing up in something sparkly, and reflecting on all the good that has happened in the year. This year we are heading to the Oregon Coast with a few friends and will be ringing in the new year with seafood and lots of laughter! But if you do not have plans yet, you might be looking for something to do, especially if you were unable to be around people and celebrate as thoroughly last year in 2020. If you’re stumped for ideas, here are some fun ideas I’ve seen recently:

Host a fondue party. Gather your friends and/or family and enjoy your favorite oil, cheese and/or chocolate fondue!

Make reservations and get dressed up! It’s been a long year; you deserve to treat yourself to a night out. Get out of the house, enjoy someone else’s cooking and have a date with your special someone or a friend!

Host a burning bowl ceremony! Invite your friends, family or simply do it alone if you prefer. Light a fire, ask everyone to bring or write down something they want to release in the coming year, and then toss it in the fire. Start the New Year fresh by acknowledgement that that thing, habit or whatever “it” is no longer serves you and you are moving forward without it!

Reserve a hotel room! Enjoy a romantic night away, even if you don’t go far, it’s a good excuse to feel like you’re on vacation for a night.

Host a game night and order food in. A little healthy competition and some laughs are a great way to start out the New Year! Take out because, let’s be honest, none of us want to start the New Year with dishes to do ;) .

Cheers!

Seasonal drinks – equally (or at least almost) as iconic as Christmas cookies this time of year, aren’t they? The holidays just wouldn’t be the same without our favorite beverages! However, some of our favorites might not be favored by our bodies… especially the ones loaded with extra sugar and calories. But fear not, there are some great options that will have you celebrating the season without loosening that belt!

Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is simply red wine which is warmed with holiday spices like cinnamon and cloves, and fruit like orange pieces – providing a Christmas-y taste without adding any extra calories. Red wine has been shown to provide health benefits like promoting heart health and working as an anti-inflammatory.

Apple Cider with Cinnamon

You don’t want to go crazy with any fruit juice, as they contain quite a bit of sugar. But in moderation, both apples and cinnamon are shown to provide health benefits like preventing certain types of cancer and diabetes and lowering cholesterol.

Hot Toddy

Often used as a soother for a sore throat, this naturally low-calorie beverage is a great choice if you’ve got your health on your mind! Traditionally made with whiskey, honey, lemon, cinnamon and hot water, it’ll soothe your sore throat OR have you feeling festive and warm over the holidays!

Healthier Peppermint Mocha

Not traditionally a “healthy” holiday beverage, but definitely a favorite! Before you stop by your favorite coffee shop for a cup of coffee with a large meal-sized calorie count, consider making your own if you’re watching your calories this holiday season! There are lots of recipes online – here a simple one, for example:

2/3 cup strong brewed coffee

2/3 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of your choice)

1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

2 packets stevia ( or sweetener of choice)

1/8 tsp peppermint extract

*Recipe taken from https://www.slenderkitchen.com/recipe/healthy-peppermint-mocha !

What are your favorites to fill your holiday cup? I’m always up to try something new! Wishing you all a week filled with spirit and cheer!

Happy New Year and Healthy Wishes

Lucie Mitchell, CTNC

Fierce and Beautiful Wellness, LLC