The holidays are a tempting time to throw in the towel when it comes to a healthy diet and lifestyle change. Its easy to use the old, “I’ll start over next year” excuse.
But imagine how much better you’ll feel if you don’t trash your healthy habits and instead find a way to celebrate in moderation. Just start NOW. This is not about perfection.
Here are 3 ways you can survive the holidays while still enjoying the foods you love.
KIP THE EXTRAS: This is a tough one! If you cut back on (or even skip altogether!) the extra stuff like cheese, gravy, sauces, butter, and whipped cream, you’ll save hundreds of calories. The food will still taste great and you’ll feel much better.
EXERCISE: The holidays are a time of year when many relax on their exercise routines. But exercise is a great way to burn off those extra calories and reduce stress during the most wonderful time of the year. Try to get moving for at least 30 minutes every day and make sure you’re doing activities you enjoy! Watching TV, waiting on the pot to boil – try marching in place. Take the stairs. 30 minutes can add up quickly. Click here to check out what I will be doing right after the holidays! So excited to take this physical and mental journey.
DRINK IN MODERATION: Sweet alcoholic drinks can have a lot of hidden calories, as can heavier drinks like beer. Stick to lower calorie drinks like vodka and sparkling water, with some lemon or lime for flavor. Follow the one to one rule—for every alcoholic drink you have, follow it with a glass of water. And during the last hour or so of the party, switch to water completely. Your head will thank you in the morning seven tips health of holiday
DON’T TAKE ON TO MUCH: You may have over-committed or you may experience unrealistic expectations during the holiday season. Pace yourself. Do not take on more responsibilities than you can handle. Cut out the things that aren’t truly important. I recently downloaded a new app called THINGS3 that I am really enjoying. It allows me to set tasks for myself and organize my thoughts. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Decide on your limits and stick to them .
Let others share responsibilities of holiday tasks. During the winter months, our activity levels slow down and there are many opportunities to eat rich food and alcohol which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame. When you plan your holiday schedule, make sure you’re also planning ways to stay active. seven tips health of holiday Be gentle with yourself and understand that your goal is to limit consumption or inactivity , not eliminate it entirely .During the winter months, our activity levels slow down and there are many opportunities to eat rich food and alcohol which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame. When you plan your holiday schedule, make sure you’re also planning ways to stay active.
Be gentle with yourself and understand that your goal is to limit consumption or inactivity , not eliminate it entirely .During the winter months, our activity levels slow down and there are many opportunities to eat rich food and alcohol which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame. When you plan your holiday schedule, make sure you’re also planning ways to stay active. Be gentle with yourself and understand that your goal is to limit consumption or inactivity , not eliminate it entirely .
DON’T OVERINDULGE : During the winter months, our activity levels slow down and there are many opportunities to eat rich food and alcohol which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame. When you plan your holiday schedule, make sure you’re also planning ways to stay active. Be gentle with yourself and understand that your goal is to limit consumption or inactivity , not eliminate it entirely .
TAKE CARE OF YOU: The holidays can be a stressful and anxious time for many , including parents. Make sure you are eating, sleeping , and enjoying the holidays as well. Like I mentioned not taking on too much , don’t feel guilty saying no when you need to. Do what is ultimately best for you and your family seven tips health of holiday.
DO NOT PROCRASTINATE : Try not to wait until last minute to get everything done. Use your time wisely and create a list . Plan your schedule and make yourself a priority. Take action on the things you know you need to get done. Sounds cliche, but it’s true. We all have the same 24 hours in a day but we all choose to spend that time differently .Make your health and fitness a priority and you will see everything else improve.
Don’t be so hard on yourself. While the holidays can be stressful and a huge list of things to do , they’re truly meant to be enjoyed. Just make good decisions! Think survival mode and focus on having a great holiday season with your family and friends instead of focusing on bad habits or overindulging on food. At the same time, remember that this is all about balance . We’ve all wanted to quit and some point of another. But what matters most is that we stay consistent and make healthier choices because that ultimately is going to get you to where you want to be.
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