The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it can be challenging to maintain healthy habits. Here are a few tips to help you stay fit and festive :
Stay Active
Find ways to incorporate physical activity into your holiday preparations.
– Take your sneakers to the office and walk to do your holiday shopping.
– Choose a parking spot a little farther away from the mall entrance and take the stairs instead of the escalator.
– Get decorating ideas by taking walks with the family through a festive neighbourhood.
– Put some holiday music on your playlists and do some dancing.
– Get the family together for a game of flag football.
– Find a holiday run or walking event.
Taking advantage of the fresh, crisp air will actually help you maintain a healthy weight. Cold weather causes your body to burn more calories as it works to maintain your internal temperature. The fresh air and natural surroundings will even give your mood a boost
You can accomplish your fitness goals during the busy holiday season by making it a priority. Put activity on your calendar and treat it as an important appointment.
Eat and Drink Mindfully
– Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water will help to manage your hunger and keep energy levels up.
– At parties and other gatherings, fill your plate with fruits, vegetables and lean proteins first, then add a few of your favourite less healthy items.
– If you are taking food to a party, make it your favourite healthy dish.Make healthier versions of your traditional recipes by using ingredients with less fat and salt.
– Enjoy cocktails in moderation. Alcohol is heavy in empty calories, dehydrates you and can interrupt sleep.
Manage Holiday Stress
– Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
– Take time for yourself to unwind and recharge.
– Don’t be too hard on yourself. Accept what you can do and don’t push yourself.
– Watch your favourite holiday movie or browse a holiday magazine.
– Stay jolly by making a list of your chores and tackle them one at a time.
Get Enough Sleep
Despite the hustle and bustle ensure you get adequate rest.
Keep your immune system strong by aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Take a power nap in the afternoon for a quick recharge.
Avoid watching the news late at night. Don’t take those disasters to bed with you.
Make your bedroom a no phone zone. No doom scrolling. Put your phone on do not disturb and put your phone on the other side of the room.
Stay Healthy
– Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
– Get vaccinated. COVID is still in our communities and peaks during the winter. Holiday season is also flu season so stay up to date on your flu shots.
– Keep a face mask in your pocket, purse or around your neck on a chain. Put it on if you find yourself in a over-crowded store
Staying healthy this holiday season by making your health and well-being the priority it should be. This season is meant to be joyful, not stressful. By keeping your fitness promises to yourself you’ll help the holidays be happy and healthy for you and your loved ones.
Get more tips for a Healthy Holiday Season…
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