It’s that time of year again where all of our gathering are based around food and we all get so busy that our health and fitness seem to always take a back seat. That does not have to be the case! This year, we have a new goal for you during the holidays –
don’t just survive; thrive!
Tip 1: Keep a Healthy Mindset
Your thoughts and emotions control so much more in your body than most people realize. It is easy to let toxic thoughts and emotions enter our brain during the holidays. Instead, reflect on the past year and realize how lucky we all really are. This is the perfect time to give thanks and take into perspective what is really important. More than likely the things that you are worrying about right now will not be nearly as big of a deal down the road. In fact, you probably won’t even remember most of them next year. Enjoy yourself this holiday season and keep a positive outlook on life!
Tip 2: Eat Before the Party
Whether it is at a friend’s house or at the office, holiday parties tend to not have many healthy food options. If you arrive at a party hungry you are more apt to overindulge in unhealthy foods. It is always a good idea to have a healthy snack prior to any holiday party.
Tip 3: Take Some Personal Time to De-Stress
We all know how harmful stress can be on our bodies and this time of year everyone’s stress levels seem to be heightened. Maybe it is trying to deal with some family members or just rushing around trying to get presents for everyone; whatever it may be, you need to take a break and have some relaxation time. This can be as simple as a slow 10 minute walk outside, taking a yoga class or even just reading a good book. Everybody deals with stress differently but make sure you take the time to help de-stress your body.
Tip 4: Don’t Skip Your Workouts
Exercising seems to get put on the back-burner around the holidays. While this is a busy time of year, try to make time to keep your body moving and feeling good. This might mean turning your usual 60 minute routine into a shortened 30 minute routine when you are rushed for time. This is still much better than skipping it entirely. Even just doing a 10 minute mobility circuit every day will do wonders for your body. Just keeping your joints moving will help you in January when you have the time to get back to your normal routine.
Tip 5: Don’t Beat Yourself Up
Chances are at one point or another you will slip up and either pig out at a party or skip your workout routine. Don’t beat yourself up about these small slip ups. We are not perfect and should get the chance to indulge once in a while. The mistake most people make is just saying “Well I already cheated so I might as well keep doing it.” Instead, recognize that you might not have made the best decision but that is ok and get back on track. This is no sense in punishing your self. Just recognize and move on!
Remember, true health is about balancing your nutrition, movement and mindset. Keep these in mind over the holiday season and set yourself up to really thrive!