The lights are up, the snow has fallen and the holiday season is in full swing! Although the holiday parties may be at a minimum this year, the cookie decorating, gingerbread houses, and holiday meals are still very much in season. However, too much of a good thing can also setback your health and fitness goals. Luckily, there are a few tips you can use this year to stay on track with your goals, while still participating in the fun of the season. Here are our 5 best holiday health tips:
1. Eat consistent, well-balanced meals
It’s easy to fill up on sugary snacks and carbs during the holidays, but try to make sure your snacks and meals are balanced. You should be eating lots of protein, fruits, and veggies throughout the day. Not only will this ensure you’re getting the proper nutrients, but it will curb the urge to reach for unhealthy foods later due to hunger.
Also, eat consistently throughout the day and evening. “Saving calories” for an event or a specific meal is not a good idea; it will make you hungry, tired, and will be more likely to cause you to overindulge. Eat on your regular schedule throughout the day so you can eat mindfully during your holiday event.
2. Stay Hydrated
It’s okay to indulge in a hot chocolate or a holiday cocktail, just make sure you are drinking plenty of water along with it. Regular water intake helps digestion, curbs hunger, and keeps you hydrated and healthy all season. For every drink of alcohol, you should also have a glass of water. On that note, you also may want to limit cocktails high in calories and opt for healthier drinks of choice.
3. Eat Mindfully
Eating out of boredom is a struggle year-round, but it can be a problem especially during the holidays. You might be snacking during your days off from work, or grabbing a cookie each time you pass the dessert table. Do your best to ensure that you are only eating when you’re hungry or during a meal time, and not just eating out of boredom or because there’s food out. Portion control is also key to mindful eating- eat only until you feel full.
Additionally, try to make sure the majority of the foods you’re eating hold nutritional value. Not everything has to be low calorie, but foods that help fuel your body are always a better choice than binging on empty calories.
4. Stay Active
It’s normal to not feel as motivated to work out around this time of year, but try your best to get at least 30 minutes of movement each day. It can be something as simple as going for a walk with a friend, or trying a new workout class with your siblings while you’re home for the holidays. Staying active around the holidays is not only good for your physical health, but it can help reduce stress and improve mood during these often hectic times. You may take a break from your normal gym routine, but keep moving and your health will thank you.
5. Give Yourself Grace
Although it’s always important to consider your health and wellness year round, don’t feel bad if you find yourself indulging a little more during the holidays. In fact, it’s actually more likely you’ll stay on track with your goals if you allow yourself a slice of pie or a cookie instead of setting unrealistic expectations that make it difficult to stay on track. Enjoy your holiday season and all the rest and food that comes with it, just be mindful. Of course, it’s about progress, not perfection!
Contact Hustle With Holmie Personal Training
Are you looking for a great way to stay active this holiday season? Book a personal training session with Holmie! We offer 1-on-1 training sessions, small group sessions, virtual personal training and more! Contact us today at (401) 641-7761 or fill out a contact form.