Mediterranean Magic: Secrets for a Healthy, Joyful Holiday Season

Holiday inspiration from some of the world's healthiest, longest living people.

Hello, friends!

As I sit here writing to you, next to my newly decorated Christmas tree, I’m reminded of how much joy this time of year brings me. Every December, I get to re-live some of my most special childhood memories, and, even better, be the architect of that same Christmas magic for my daughters. The holidays is really so much more than any religious observance; it’s a celebration of all that is good in life: gathering with loved ones, honoring and creating family traditions, eating well, making our homes extra inviting and cozy, and finding thoughtful ways to express our love and gratitude for the people in our lives.

Yet, the holidays can be synonymous with overindulgence and weight gain. It’s hard to resist the seemingly endless stream of homemade cookies and treats, festive cocktails and trays of hors oeuvres that come our way between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. In my 20’s and early 30’s, I struggled with all-or-nothing thinking. I would go off the rails the whole month, indulging in whatever food or drinks I wanted, not exercising and generally feeling awful and utterly depleted come January 1. Not ideal.

Since my cancer diagnosis nearly five years ago, I’ve taken better responsibility for my health and overall well being, and have learned to enjoy a more balanced approach to the holidays and life, in general. Lately, I’ve been drawing most of my wellness inspiration from the Blue Zones, and specifically, the Mediterranean region. The Mediterranean diet is consistently lauded as one of the world’s healthiest diets - what I love about it is that it’s not overly rigid, and eating this way feels abundant and joyful (I personally stick to a plant-based Mediterranean diet, but some people choose to include some carefully sourced animal products, in moderation).

So, let’s take a page from one of the healthiest regions of the world to inspire a holiday season full of flavor, connection and wellness. You’ll still get to enjoy all that the season has to offer, and start the New Year feeling good.

We’ll talk about how to:

-Connect and slow down during the holidays

-Putting together a simple, healthy and festive Mediterranean holiday spread

-A Mediterranean approach to drinking

-Naturally sweet treats to enjoy and serve

-Staying active and connecting with nature