If you are like me, and like to stick to a healthy lifestyle, this time of the year can become challenging since there are many temptations, leftovers from holiday meals, etc. You don’t want to lose the progress you have made all year and want to start fresh for the new year. And if we’re honest, this happens over and over throughout the year as well when we gather with friends for parties, go out to eat, etc.
I have compiled a few tips and tricks to help you stay on the path to a healthier lifestyle, so that you can continue to enjoy and embrace life’s temptations while staying true to you, your health, and your fitness goals!
#1: Follow Your Normal Nutrition Plan
It’s easy to let your normal eating habits go to the wind when there is tasty food everywhere and you are busy with life, work, family, etc. But sticking to your nutrition plan, as much as possible, will make it easier to continue with it. Plus, eating healthy will give you energy for the various commitments you have. When tempted, choose veggies, cheese, fruits, and other healthy sides instead of overindulging on sweets and salty treats.
#2: Portion Out Indulgences
You do not have to sacrifice your enjoyment of tasty treats during this season or special occasions! Simply stick to the rule of moderation when you are enjoying the traditional meals and desserts. Portioning out meals and decadent treats are especially important in these situations. Enjoy a small piece of cake or a delicious sugar cookie but be sure to know your limits. Do not forget your commitment to your health and fitness goals and all of the progress you have made. Balance your diet with healthy foods, like fruits and vegetables - that will also strengthen your immune system during the peak of the flu season.
#3: Stay Active
My favorite! While nutrition is essential to healthy weight, exercise will help you burn those extra holiday calories and special occasion indulgences. Stay active and get back to nature with friends and family. Find time within your busy daily routine to workout, take the dogs out for a walk, and you’ll also gain added benefits of a better mental health. Go for a snow-shoeing adventure, go for a cross country scenic tour or head to the coast for a stroll! Even 30 minutes a day can reset your energy, clear your mind, and do wonders to your body! If this seems impossible, start smaller and build up – 30 mins 3 times a week, or 15 min daily – find your groove.
#4: Go to Bed at a Reasonable Hour
Not getting enough sleep can do far more than make you feel sleepy. Lack of sleep can interfere with your optimal health and imbalance your life. For example, it can make it more difficult to concentrate, increase your risk of numerous chronic health conditions, and negatively affect your mental health. Not getting enough sleep can also encourage you to eat unhealthy foods, such as options with too many carbohydrates. When you’re tired, you’re more likely to eat too much food, since sleep affects peptides that control appetite responses. Catching enough z’s during can help keeping you fit and support your health.
#5: Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water to hydrate your body is always important. Having enough water can prevent you from becoming dehydrated from all the salty holiday meals and snacks you had or will have at special occasions. Drinking water is also great for preventing overeating! If you tend to travel during this time of the year or for special occasions, keep in mind this can also lead to dehydration. This is especially true if you’re flying to your destination, as a plane cabin has less humidity than normal air and it can dehydrate you. By keeping these in mind, drinking water can help your body stay in optimal health and restore the fluids you have lost.
#6: Schedule Your Day
As we all have experienced, the holiday season or certain special occasions can get overwhelming with extra items on our to-do list. This can make it more challenging to prioritize our health and fitness, but when you schedule your days, you can find time for both seasonal activities and your active healthy lifestyle.
#7: Make Meal Prep a Priority
Meal prepping can help you stick to a healthy eating routine. Plan out different appetizing meals you can enjoy throughout the week. Use this time to meal prep with a friend! Choose recipes you can throw together in a slow cooker or pressure cooker and add a salad too. Soups are always a winter favorite in my household, as you can make a large batch and freeze it too! You can also portion out easy and healthy snacks and meals. When you have already made meals, it can be easier and less time-consuming to follow a healthy eating plan rather than giving in to fast food or whatever treats you find.
Ending the year in a healthy manner is the perfect way to welcome the New Year and avoid having to deal with the guilt and stress of neglecting your health and fitness goals. By paying close attention to your meals, meal prepping, and staying active, you’ll be well on your way to staying fit and staying on target with your healthy lifestyle!
Have a wonderful season and a happy new year!
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