I know I'm not the only one who's social media is flooding with holiday treats! The temptation is literally everywhere from the grocery store to our social media feeds. Christmas is the toughest time of year for people to manage their weight and keep up with their exercise routines and with gyms closing again right before the holidays, it is expected that we will struggle more than usual. Here are some tips that can help you to stay healthy during the holiday season!
Don't Skip Your Meals - What's worse than seeing all of the sweet and salty treats everywhere? Being hungry and tempted! Our willpower will decline if our stomachs are grumbling from lack of nutrients and satiating food. What happens when we start eating the treats like this? We can't stop because we are hungry plus these kinds of foods are not filling because they lack protein, healthy fats and fiber. Eat your meals, drink plenty of fluids and you will be able to make better choices!
Let Yourself Have Your Favourite Treats - Telling yourself that you can't enjoy any of your favourite treats that remind you of your holiday memories is a recipe for failure. Plan to enjoy your favourite treats. Decide what day you are going to have them, look forward to it and use it as motivation to stay on a healthy routine before and after.
Get Outside - I know it's cold, but being outdoors and in nature can help to boost our moods this time of year. It can help to ground us, bring a sense of calm, spark creativity and a chance to practice gratitude. Connecting with nature is good for both our mental and physical health.
Keep Moving - Even though gyms are closed doesn't mean we can't keep our bodies moving. Go outside for a walk, do yoga, try at at home workout video, play with your kids, shovel the driveway or play with your dog! Get creative with movement and commit to 30 minutes per day. It will improve your mood, regulate your appetite, help you sleep better and keep you warm during a cold day.
Cook or Bake Healthy Versions of Holiday Favourites - Yes you should enjoy some classic snacks and treats, but not all day, everyday. So instead incorporate those holiday flavours into healthy meals or snacks. Pinterest is full of healthy alternatives and recipe. Feel free to check out my recipes blog for sweet treats: http://fitmodelrecipes.blogspot.com/ Making a switch from sugar to honey or adding a little pumpkin pie spice and coconut milk to your coffee can save you a lot of calories!
The holidays can be a stressful time and it can be easy to fall off track from our routines. Living a balanced lifestyle includes celebrating and spending time with our loved ones, but that doesn't mean we have to give up our self-care routines. Remember, it isn't selfish to make time for your well-being, it is essential for our moods, energy and overall health! Rest when you need to and give yourself the gift of living well this holiday season.
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