It's finally time for the holidays. If you're anything like me, this time of year brings on a lot of memories; it reminds us that we are so lucky to have what we do, and that we should be eternally thankful for all of the beautiful parts of life that we might take for granted in the day-to-day.

However, if you're also like me, you might be a little concerned for how those leggings you asked for from your mom are going to fit after all of this amazing food...

I grew up in the South -- in the southern part of North Carolina, to be exact. Let me tell you, there's a lot to be wary of when trying to stay fit during the holiday season. You're tired, you're lazy, you're stressed, and you're being constantly tempted by amazing food. Y'all, fall is rough for my belts.

Ever since I went vegan three years ago, I've wanted to find a way to really treat myself and enjoy the holidays, without having to break out the elastic waistband sweatpants. This year is no different.

I want to share with you my top 5 ways to stay in shape this holiday season. Trust me, you'll thank me later.

1) Make sure you're staying active

TAKE A HIKE! Seriously. This is a great family activity! Pick a short one, if your family is made up of mostly couch potatoes; but spending some time out of the house and off of the screens can really make for awesome bonding between family members. If you can't make it out to a hike, I highly suggest just taking a walk!

If no one wants to join you, take the kids or the dog and just walk until your heart is content! Bonus: The kids and/or dogs will come back very tired and will probably be a lot better behaved. They might even take a nap. You'll be the person that got Tommy, the 5-year-old who never stops throwing his toys around, to chill tf out for an hour so your aunt can actually have a cup of coffee without having to watch him like a hawk.

2) Take small portions

One of my tricks is taking small portions (but quite a few of them) and that way I can eat everything on my plate and not feel super guilty OR overly full. You can always go back up for more! Wait a few minutes between plates, though -- just to make sure you're not overeating. Plus, you'll feel like you're spoiling yourself. Going up for thirds? Count this girl in. A cupcake? Yes, please.

Not only are you saving your tummy from getting overly full, but you're making sure everyone gets as much as they need, too. You aren't wasting food by letting your eyes be bigger than your stomach. And while everyone else is passed out on the couch, you can go outside and have the energy to start a fire and cozy up and stargaze.

3) Don't drink too much (or at all!)

I know, this might be pretty unheard of for some people. Honestly, no one really drinks at my family's holiday parties, for a multitude of reasons; but I used to sneak a glass of wine or some whiskey apple cider after doing some dishes. One or two drinks is really not too bad for you, but I try not to drink after having large meals. The alcohol doesn't really affect you, and you end up drinking a lot more than usual, just to counteract how much bulk you have in your belly.

If you're doing to drink on a holiday, do it in moderation. No one wants to be the one drunk family member. But also, try to time it out so you're able to appreciate it! If you're drinking purely for taste, try a few virgin cocktails instead -- a lot less sugar! Try a cinnamon apple spice cider, or a delicious hot tea. Maybe save the real nightcap for after everything is clean and everyone has gone home. ;)

4) Drink a ton of fluids

Look, it's getting cold outside, and I know it can be harder to make sure you're hydrated when all you want to do is eating bread and drink cider; but drinking water and staying hydrated is so important! Any way you can get it into your body, do it! Whether that's tea, hot water with lemon or ginger, or even just getting a cute water bottle to inspire you to drink, just do it!

This 'Save the Fishies' water bottle is from Sand Cloud (http://www.sandcloudtowels.com). 10% of your purchase from Sand Cloud goes to helping save marine wildlife. Not to mention, it's the perfect size to carry around in a purse, backpack, or in hand! Did I also tell you that it's adorable? Because it's that, also... (BTW, this is not a sponsored plug. I just love their mission statement and merchandise!)

5) Eat with love (AKA Treat yo' self)

It's the end of the year, and some people like to bring in the new year by celebrating all that they've accomplished this year by treating themselves to things they normally wouldn't eat. This is wonderful.

If and when you decide to pig out a little, do it mindfully. Remind yourself that this is a treat because you've earned this pleasure. You've worked hard. Eat bite should be savored. Don't just mindlessly shove food into your face while you watch some rerun of a bad 90's show.

Eat because you love yourself. Don't eat chocolate until you can't move. Don't eat stuffing until someone starts to make gobble, gobble's at you. Treat yo' self, don't punish yourself.

There you have it: my top 5 tips for staying in shape this holiday season. If your workout routine suffers a little, it's okay. Life is a new experience every day: You're not going to get it all right the first time.

Make sure you like, comment, and share this article if you enjoyed it. Happy Holidays, everyone! <3