Stress is when you wake up screaming and you realize you haven’t fallen asleep yet.
~ Anonymous
W
ith the holidays in full swing, you’re most likely finding yourself dealing with some extra stress. You’re finding it impossible to catch a breath, must less relax. Whether you’re driving endlessly around the mall parking lot looking for that one spot to open up or perhaps you’re finding it hard to say no to another holiday party or activity, there’s no doubt that you may be feeling anxious.
While many put their physical fitness on the back burner this time of year, now more than ever is a time when keeping your fitness goals in check is important, especially if you expect to get any enjoyment at all out of the holiday season. It’s also essential for maintaining your health, your weight and your sanity.
We’ve learned from past blogs that one of the benefits to exercise is that it boosts your mood. This time of the year can be tough on lots of people, often generating depression and moodiness. With the demands put on your finances and relationships, there’s no wonder you suffer physically and emotionally. I absolutely love this time of year – that’s just me. I thrive on lots of activity. However, if I didn’t keep up my consistent workout programs, I might be singing another tune.
There are many ways to cope with holiday stress and also help prevent you from gaining weight over the holidays. Below are just a few tips that you might find helpful:
1. Limit your intake of calorie-filled beverages. Eggnog, champagne, mochas, and hot chocolate all have one thing in common: they are packed with empty calories – avoid these beverages and load up on water instead.
2. Officially schedule exercise into your calendar. It’s just too easy to let workouts slide this time of year – make a commitment to exercise and keep it.
3. Forego the goodie making. By keeping your home free from holiday treats, you will undoubtedly gain fewer pounds. However, if you simply have to make those Christmas cookies, there are many websites that offer healthier alternative goodies that your family and friends will love just as much as those sugary ones.
4. Have fun being active. Winter is a great time to burn calories outdoors. Go skiing for a day or take the kids sledding. No snow in sight? Then take a brisk bike ride, power walk through the mall or find a new hiking trail to explore.
5. Use healthy ingredients. Your holiday meal will taste even better when you seek out fresh, organic and low fat ingredients – and you’ll feel better too.
6. Learn to compromise. Coffee boutiques enticing you to have that peppermint mocha? Go ahead – but have it with non-fat milk and pass on the whipped cream.
7. Don’t go hungry. The holidays are a dangerous time for your metabolism. Focus on eating small balanced meals every few hours to boost your metabolism and keep it going strong.
8. Enjoy a sample. No one says you have to completely avoid the appetizers and desserts at your holiday party – just enjoy in moderation.
9. Focus on family not food. Let’s face it – this time of year is big on two things: family and food. Make an effort to place your focus primarily on your family.
10. Stick to your strategy. The best way to gain weight over the holidays is to approach them without a plan. Using the above tips, write down the ways in which you plan to avoid weight gain this year – then periodically check up on yourself.
Don’t allow the gift-giving season to rob you of the gift you’ve always wanted – a healthier body. Keeping up with your exercise programs and watching your calorie intake will not only make you feel better, but will be the best gift you can give your loved ones. Plus you’ll be setting an example to your children. Don’t forget to check my site daily for free workout programs that will help you put the joy back in your holiday season!
