Tips and tricks are all over the web on
staying slim over the holidays. From
navigating the buffet line to insane post
cookie binge workouts.
The reality is, the holidays are hard.
There is little margin in our schedules
for self care and it seems like all
activities revolve around pies and fudge
(or maybe that is just at my house).
I want you to enjoy this time with family
and friends. Don’t neglect your most
loved traditions and the foods that go
along with that . . . . for my family Aunt
Grace’s Peanut Butter Fudge.
However, you don’t want to be starting
from scratch when it comes to your body
and health goals come January 1.
I want to simplify things. Let’s focus on
the 3 things we just can’t ignore if we
want to be healthy this holiday season.
Furthermore, we are not just talking
about our waistlines here. We want to
optimize mood, immunity, and self
confidence to make the most of this
joyous season.
1. Eat Wisely
It can’t be ignored. Food is everywhere
and there are a lot of decisions we have
to make. For most of us, willpower alone
will not allow us to make good choices at
the dessert table.
First, plan your attack. Think about the
foods you absolutely love and have
special meaning to you. Also, decide
what you can live without or what you
know will make you feel especially
uncomfortable after eating.
Make your choices ahead of time and
stick to your plan. Furthermore, have
enough self respect to not eat things just
to people please.
Finally, don’t skip meals so you can
have an extra piece of cake later. Again,
will power will go out the window and
you will be more likely to overeat later.
As in. . . eating the whole cake!
2. Maintain Your Exercise Routine
You do not have to start anything new or
add time to your regimen to compensate
for extra calories. Just try to stick to
your current plan the best you can.
However, don’t beat yourself up when
you miss a workout. You are not the only
one too busy for Body Pump after work!
Make up what you missed in small ten
minute intervals throughout the day.
Get an extra walk in at lunch or pick up
the pace at the mall and make shopping
a power walk.
A short high intensity workout can be
great this time of year to burn fat, reduce
stress, and curb cravings.
The take home point. . . MOVE MORE!
3. Manage Stress
Do you remember how much fun
Christmas was when you were a kid?
As adults, we have overflowing
calendars and to do lists that seem to
zap our joy. Start by saying “no” to
activities that aren’t a top priority.
Choose wisely the things you and your
family will participate in.
Next, let go of perfection! Avoid
Facebook and everyone’s holiday
highlight reel if you start playing the
comparison game.
Some holiday stress is just unavoidable.
So when you have the chance, take a
few deep breathes or sneak in a twenty
minute nap.
I use a free app called “Stop, Breathe,
Think”. It has a 3 minute mindful
breathing meditation that has been
great for our whole family.
In summary. . . ENJOY YOURSELF!
Don’t run through the holidays on
autopilot with your unconscious mind at
the wheel. Make choices that will allow
you to enjoy time with those you love
and celebrate the meaning of this season.
When in doubt, gratitude always helps. . .
We are very THANKFUL for all of you!
