It’s the holidays, always a challenging time for those of us that try so hard to lose or maintain weight. The goal this time of year is consistency. If you already live a healthy lifestyle then kudos to you, and keep up the good work! If you are striving for consistency with your health and fitness journey, we are here to help! Take it one day at a time. Don’t stress about treating yourself during the holidays – just be mindful of balance.
Here are some healthful tips for this holiday season.
- Move in the Morning
When the weather starts to shift, getting up in the morning may start to feel like a chore. Although hitting the snooze button may seem like the right call, make a conscious effort to get up and move in the morning. Do whichever type of movement works for you, be it meditation and breathing work, HIIT, a walk, yoga, etc. – aim for at least 20 minutes of activity before you officially start your day. - Eat a Balanced Breakfast
If you’re into health and wellness, this statement seems to be a staple in all blogs and posts, but that is because it’s so true! Starting your day with a balanced breakfast, full of fiber, protein, and free from sugar, will give you more energy throughout the day and help you feel fuller longer. Meaning you’re less likely to open and close your fridge four times before lunch to see what’s inside. - Stay Hydrated – H2O Hydrated
We know you’ve heard this before, but it is so important. From the moment you wake up, start drinking water, and aim for two (2) to four (4) liters a day. The more hydrated you are, the more energy you have. Plus, drinking is a simple and easy way to help control cravings for snacks and sweets and aids you in not overeating. Most times, when we think we are hungry, we are in reality just dehydrated. Pro tip–keep a water bottle with you at all times. That means when you travel, at work on your desk, and the coffee table next to the couch during your Netflix binge. The easier it is to access water, the more you will drink. If the taste of water doesn’t appetize you, there are several ways to make it enjoyable–add fruit or lemon to it or create cold or hot tea, which also counts towards your hydration goals. But if you are drinking tea all day long, stick to herbal or decaf teas. - Get Outside
Aim to get outside for at least 20 minutes each day. Spending time outdoors has been found to help relieve stress and anxiety, improve mood, boost feelings of happiness and well-being, and raise your Vitamin D levels, which keeps your immune system strong. So, in case you needed an excuse to take your conference call outside, here you go! - Mindful Eating
Food is to be enjoyed, and that is what mindful eating is all about. Not only is food meant to be enjoyed, but it’s also there to help nourish your body and give it what it needs to function. During our busy working days and/or rushing in between shopping trips, family, and work holiday events, we must learn to hit the pause button during your meals and take time to enjoy your delicious food! Eating makes us happy, so savor it!
We hope these tips help you stay on track this holiday season and allow you to focus on the most important part of the holidays — relaxing and enjoying the festivities with your family and friends.