Ready or not, the holidays are here. With all the feasting and shopping and party-going and year-end budgeting, it can be tough to keep up a regular exercise routine.
Enjoy the glorious holiday without sabotaging your health.
Be a smart cookie by following these simple steps to stay healthy during the holiday season:
Eat Mindfully
When you're eating, sit back and allow yourself to truly enjoy your favorite holiday flavors. Pay attention to the taste, aroma and texture of the foods. When the attention shifts from your body, redirect it back to your internal fullness and satisfaction cues.
Stay Hydrated
Water accounts for 60% of our body’s total weight and we need to stay hydrated in order to maintain this ratio. Water is also necessary for several bodily functions, including maintaining our cell’s fluids and delivering nutrients.
Choose Healthy Substitutes
With a few simple diet tweaks, you can indulge in your favorite holiday foods without packing serious pounds. For instance, replace sour cream with greek yogurt in your favorite holiday recipes. Trade mashed potato with mashed sweet potato. And swap heavy dips like blue cheese dip and spinach and artichoke dip with these healthy bean-based dips and homemade hummus.
Boost Your Immune System
Eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables is one of the best things you can do to bolster your immune system.
Make Time For Self-are
Don't let the holiday madness take a toll on your mental and emotional health. Whether you're caught up in cooking, holiday shopping or socializing, don't put your needs on the back burner. Take some time off to relax and unwind –go for a walk, meditate, watch your favorite movie or read a good book, do at least one thing every day that makes you truly happy.
Change Your Mindset
Try to reframe the 'now or never' nature of the holidays. "Make a deal with yourself that if you want stuffing, ham or pecan pie another time, you can have it. When you de-mystify holiday food and recognize you can eat it any time, you’re in better control of your food choices.
About the Author
Dave Mugavero is the owner of Custom Bodies Fitness in Irvine, California. He is extremely proud of his success as the top rated health club in Orange County. Dave has been in the fitness industry for over 24 years, and is widely considered by his peers to be a “Weight Loss Guru”. His extensive knowledge of nutrition, human physiology, personal training and weight loss techniques, and his caring commitment to each client are what make him an expert in his field. He has been a top ranked Natural Body Builder and highly sought after personal trainer and lecturer.
