THE 85 PERCENT RULE FOR A JOYFUL DECEMBER
For those of us who like to stick to an exercise and eating routine, December can feel a bit daunting. The festive season tends to shake things up, and that’s okay! It’s a busy, special time of year, and it doesn’t have to come with guilt or stress.
We’ve talked about the “85 Percent Rule” before (insert link), a principle borrowed from athletic coaching that’s all about balance. Let’s explore how it can help us navigate December’s celebrations with a bit more ease and enjoyment.
EATING
December has 31 days, which adds up to about 93 meals (give or take). If you aim to make healthy choices 85 percent of the time, that’s roughly 14 meals where you can relax and enjoy festive treats. Suddenly, those indulgent moments feel more manageable, right?
Maybe it’s a dinner party every two or three nights where you enjoy the festive fare. Just try to balance those moments by choosing meals with protein and fiber at other times of the day and keeping portions reasonable. And remember—enjoying yourself doesn’t have to mean eating to the point of discomfort.
DRINKING
Ah, festive drinks! Moderation can still fit into the 85 Percent Rule. Health guidelines recommend up to 7 units of alcohol a week for women and 14 for men. These could align with your festive meals, keeping everything within a comfortable balance.
EXERCISE
December may be packed, but staying active doesn’t mean spending hours at the gym. If you aim to move your body 85 percent of the days (around 26 out of 31), you’ve got five free days to rest, travel, or just take a breather.
This could be as simple as a brisk 30-minute walk most days. It’s not about perfection—it’s about keeping movement part of your routine so you feel good.
SLEEP
With parties and late nights, sleep can get tricky in December. Try aiming for 7–8 hours on most nights, knowing that an occasional late one won’t derail you. Sleep is key to keeping stress in check and helping you make good choices the next day, but there’s no need to beat yourself up over a few disruptions.
STRESS
Let’s face it—December can be hectic. There’s a lot to juggle, from social commitments to holiday prep. But focusing on living healthily most of the time can make a big difference in how you feel, helping you stay grounded and more in control.
ENJOY IT ALL
The festive season is about connection, celebration, and joy. There’s plenty of room for champagne toasts, sweet treats, family dinners, and lazy days. The beauty of the 85 Percent Rule is that it allows for flexibility. Knowing that you’re reigning things in most of the time makes those indulgent moments all the sweeter—and leaves you feeling good heading into the new year.