Staying Healthy Through the Holidays
Staying Healthy Through the Holidays
The holiday season often derails our fitness routines and healthy diets. With a little planning and commitment, you can maintain your healthy lifestyle and stay fit through the holidays. The key is having strategies to keep moving your body and make mindful food choices.
Keep Up Your Exercise Routine
Scheduling workouts should be a priority, not an option you skip when busy. Mark exercise sessions on your calendar and treat them as important as your other holiday commitments. Take advantage of downtime to get active by going for walks after holiday meals or doing at-home workout videos. Look for festive activities like holiday fun runs. If traveling, research nearby gym options or pack exercise gear and workout clothes. Adjusting your normal routine is better than abandoning it completely.
Practice Mindful Eating
Navigating holiday potlucks, cookies exchanges, and family feasts takes some strategy. Don’t arrive to parties ravenous – have a healthy snack beforehand so you don’t overindulge. Survey all the food options before filling your plate, and stick to healthier choices like veggies and lean protein. Portion control is critical – take small samples of holiday treats instead of large servings. Drink water between bites of food and alcoholic beverages. Compensate for bigger meals by eating lighter fare like salads and smoothies the rest of the day.
Manage Stress
Holiday hustle and bustle can ratchet up your stress levels. Carve out time for yourself each day to relax and recharge through activities like reading, meditating, journaling or doing yoga. Try to maintain your normal sleep routine as much as possible. Set realistic expectations for the holidays to avoid disappointment and frustration when things don’t go perfectly. Make social gatherings enjoyable but set boundaries when you need time for yourself.
This holiday season, stay on top of your health and fitness goals. With a little strategic planning, you can maintain healthy habits and enjoy the holidays to the fullest.
