How to survive party season without burning out your body

With the festive and wedding season underway, it seems there’s a never-ending string of social events to attend. And while it brings with it the joy of meeting friends, dressing up, and reunions, back-to-back events can take a toll on our well-being. As a health coach, here’s my handy guide on how to celebrate while keeping one’s health in check.

Snack up before heading out

Opt for a light meal or a heavy snack—think scrambled eggs and veggies, hummus with carrots and cucumbers, or a small plate of home- cooked food before heading out. This way, you won’t reach the party starving and ready to binge on heavy, deep-fried munchies until dinner’s finally served. The key is to enjoy everything in moderation and not overdo it. It’s all about balance.

Stay hydrated

Not just at the party, but the day before and after. This one’s pretty obvious, but we often forget to do it. I find that keeping a big bottle of water with me through the day acts as a helpful reminder. Adding mint leaves, cucumber, or lemon to water also makes it more exciting. While the World Health Organization has declared that “no level of alcohol consumption is safe,” if you are going to drink, then drink a full glass of water after each alcoholic beverage you consume. This will help keep you hydrated and prevent a severe hangover the next day. And if you choose not to drink, and don’t want those around you to force you into drinking, opt for a soda in a fun glass mixed with garnishes to avoid peer pressure—which is, sadly, real.

The vegetable balance 

Try keeping your plate balanced when you’re out so you don’t go overboard with carbs. Throw in some protein too, such as meat, paneer, or tofu. The addition of veggies and protein will make the meal easier on your gut and ensure you’re getting in some nutrients to undo some of the damage. 

Move and mingle 

Dance, walk around, mingle. If it’s not a sit-down dinner, try and get some movement in. It’s a good way to check out the party and also balance out some of the indulgence. After eating, try and get in a 10-minute walk once you’re back home, or even within the house if you can. This will do wonders for your digestive system. 

Keep count 

When you know you have a party to attend, make sure you’re good the rest of the day. So, if you’re going out for dinner, plan a light day in terms of your preceding meals; breakfast, lunch, and a snack. Avoid carbs or anything heavy. Start with a light breakfast, like a Greek yogurt parfait with fruits and nuts or an omelette loaded with vegetables, and follow up with an equally light lunch that’s home-cooked. If it’s lunch you’re invited to, then have a light breakfast and dinner that day.

Herbal tea to the rescue 

Show your gut some love. For me, a pot of home-made fennel or fresh mint tea after dinner is a ritual I’ve come to enjoy daily. Each sip can feel calming and can actually help with digestion. Just steep fresh mint or fennel in water on a stove until it’s boiling. Strain and enjoy!

The morning after 

Avoid refined carbs and sugar. Focus on light vegetables and fruits, lots of liquids, and some green tea to flush the toxins out of your system. I also recommend dry brushing and a good old massage to aid lymphatic drainage. This also feels really good if you’ve been on your feet all night, in heels or dancing the night away. If you can get access to a sauna, there’s nothing like it to speed up the detoxification process. Also, make sure to give yourself some downtime. This helps one recharge, mentally and emotionally. And, sneak in a midday nap if you haven’t slept enough, or allow yourself to sleep in the next day. Your body needs time to recover.

Note on desserts 

When you feel like those jalebis were made for you, or that cheesecake is calling out your name, go ahead and indulge. But cap it at a few bites instead of a few slices. Moderation over deprivation will ensure your sugar doesn’t spike. And don’t forget your steps and herbal tea after.

Enjoy

If you’re going to go out and indulge, keep these tips in mind, but don’t forget to let yourself enjoy and actually savour the moment. Stress triggers cortisol in the body, which hampers the digestion process. You don’t want to disrupt digestion when you’re already eating heavier than usual. So think smart, enjoy, and have fun this party season.

Ananya Bhandare is a health coach and founder of healthy snack brand Jungly Delights.

This article first appeared in Cosmopolitan India's November-December 2025 print edition.

Photo credits: Aman Makkar  

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