Every year at this time it becomes increasingly difficult to keep the weight off, keep the workouts going and eat right. There are holiday parties for friends, colleagues and family. There are pumpkin pancakes, cookies, muffins and peppermint bark! Come January 1, we feel bloated, sick, fat and run down. It’s no coincidence that the biggest month for health and wellness industry in January!
So how do you navigate this hectic booby trap of a season and come out on top? Okay, so the holidays aren’t just a physically hard time, they are emotionally challenging as well.
See my 9 tips below for both your mental & physical health!
1. Get some boundaries
Yep, boundaries people! Is there a family tradition that you despise? A family member that puts you on edge? Just too MANY holiday parties?These types of holiday events could cause anyone to get stressed out. What would happen if you give yourself a time limit to how much you will engage with that frustrating family member or pre plan a fun activity to do after the family tradition you hate or just say no to one of those holiday parties?2. Schedule Time to Connect with Yourself
With the holidays you are generally surrounded by people, people and more people. Make sure you don’t lose sight of the “me” time you deserve. My favorite way to quickly get centered is to close my eyes and breathe in through my nose to a count of four, hold my breath for a count of two, breathe out through my mouth for a count of four, and repeat. Open your mouth wide and then stick your tongue out to release tension in your jaw and tongue. Check your neck and shoulders, roll your head from left to right, do some seated cat and cows to stretch your spin. Stretch your arms across your body and then do a couple of lunges to release your hips and legs.3. Step Away From The Snack Bowl!
This one is for all those holiday parties! Stand more than an arm’s length away from munchies, like a bowl of chocolate Hershey’s kisses and potato chips, while you chat so you’re not tempted to mindlessly eat.4. Eat Before You Leave
If you know your office or friend is throwing a party that there will likely just be snacks and alcohol at, load up on the healthy stuff (protein & fiber) before you go. That way you will be less tempted to try and mindlessly fill your stomach with empty calories.5. Loose the Guilt
Listen, holidays aren’t perfect for anyone and it doesn’t help to be obsessive. Life is meant to be lived so do yourself the favor of relaxing and enjoying what the season has to offer. Have a glass of red wine, enjoy a processed piece of peppermint bark or whatever your favorite holiday treat is. It only comes around once a year.PRO TIP: If you indulge in alcohol try to keep it to clear liquors like vodka, gin or have a glass of red wine. Avoid processed sugar mixers and juices.