I’m not talking about haunted hayrides, or scary movies, or those creepy displays in the pop up Halloween stores. I love that stuff (as long as there are no clowns involved. I’m not available for clowns.)
I’m talking about the candy. The giant bags of fun size candy bars we buy for the trick or treaters, but end up treating ourselves with. Or the seasonally colored Hershey kisses that look so cute in the jar on our counter, until we end up eating them all.
And end up feeling like crap.
Which is why I’m giving you my top 5 tips to make Halloween a little less scary.
Find other ways to celebrate the season
Go pumpkin picking, go to the costume store (my favorite) or go on a hayride. Whatever gets you in the spirit. Personally, I’m not a big fan of hay rides, because I always feel itchy. But that’s just me.
Enjoy all the flavors of the season, not just candy
There is so much great seasonal produce this time of year…butternut squash, crisp apples and beets to name just a few. Visit a farmer’s market, or just your local grocery store, and get inspired. I used to dip apple slices in that crappy caramel sauce, now I love them sprinkled with a little bit of cinnamon.
Don’t bring giant bags of candy into the house
Seriously. Wait until the last minute to buy candy for the trick or treaters. That way it’s not just sitting around the house looking all cute and tempting you. Or buy stuff that you don’t even like so it’s not an issue. Like Butterfinger bars. Does anyone even eat them?
Make healthier versions of sweet treats
If you really want to have something sweet, make it yourself so you can control what you’re eating. And if you have trouble with portion control (don’t we all?!) then set aside a reasonable portion and freeze the rest for later. Here’s one of my favorite cookie recipes, and it freezes really well:
favorite peanut butter cookies
And finally, here’s my last tip. Which may surprise you:
Eat the damn candy
That’s right. But do it mindfully. And without regret. What’s that one treat that brings back cozy memories? Maybe it’s a caramel apple. Or Reeses cups. For me, it’s a Hershey bar with almonds. Totally brings back childhood trick or treat memories in the best possible way.
Buy the treat. Take it home. And savor it, without any distractions.
And then move on. No guilt. Life’s too short.
If you find these tips helpful, you’ll love the video I just recorded called “get your shit together before the holidays.”
It’s full of actionable steps that you can take right now so you look and feel your best throughout the holidays. Without making yourself crazy.
Want to watch? Here’s a link so you can get it delivered right to your inbox:
get your shit together before the holidays video
As always, thanks for reading. And Happy Halloween!
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