Did any of the experts ever consider that one of the reasons we gain weight during the holidays is not because we overeat all those delicious meals and treats, but that we overeat all those delicious meals and treats because of the anxiety that comes gift-wrapped during the holiday season?

I'm particularly struck by a news release on December 24, 2007 from Academy of the Sierras, a leading treatment program for obese children, adolescents and young adults.

Among AOS's very original recommendations:

1.  Begin the day with a brisk walk to dampen your appetitite.

2.  Call your party host in advance so you can "make a list of what you will eat, with whom you will talk, and how you will stay focused on successful weight control even during the party."

3.  Eat low-fat, low-sugar foods throughout the day and then protein immediately before the party.

4.  Avoid high calorie foods such as high-fat chips, dips, nuts and appetizers.

5.  Write down virtually everything you eat.

You get the idea.  AOS recommends we all obsess about our diets as a way of succeeding.  Well, to quote Santa Claus, "Ho, ho, ho!"

I'm looking for better ideas.  How about suggestions for making oneself more comfortable when reuniting with family and friends who make us feel uncomfortable or who challenge our self-images?  How about suggestions for feeling good about ourselves if we say 'no' to a family party, because we really don't need the stress of it all?

How do we deal with those at the party who appear to be more successful, more svelt and more popular than we are?  How do we realize what wonderful blessings we all enjoy, whether or not we fit into a size 0 dress or a pair of 32-waist jeans?

Many of us overeat at parties because food makes us feel good, doesn't judge us, doesn't criticize us, doesn't remind us of what it thinks we should be like.  Replacing all that with a celary stick just won't cut it.

Email me at dean@youherenow.com with your suggestions or posts.  I'll see that they are listed on this site.

-- Dean Rotbart
Founder & Editor