Onam is the season of sumptuous sadya, delicious payasams and all things yummy.
Yet, there are ways in which you can relish the food and yet not pile on pounds.
If time permits, prepare the sadya and Onam special snacks at home. This gives you control over ingredient portions, their quality and even the number of dishes.
Take part in at least one or two Onam special games, which can help you stay active in the season - Vadamvali aka tug of war, thiruvathirakali(dance), uriyadi (pot breaking) and thalappanthukali (ball game), to name a few.
Rely on local, seasonal flowers to make your pookkalam (floral carpet). When you walk in your neighbourhood to fetch the flowers, you can easily gain at least 5000 steps.
Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
While having the sadya, begin with a sweet dish, such as sarkkaravaratti. Follow it up with the main course, which includes rice, ghee, and dal, as well as the vegetable curries and pickle. Finally, enjoy the dessert.
Even after the sadya, engage in some light activities that do not require extreme physical exertion.