The holiday season is notorious for pushing us into comforting but unhealthy habits. You want to lay in bed all day, eat monstrously calorific foods, watch holiday-themed movies, and just dream about never going back to work!
However, these unhealthy habits make it harder for you to bounce back once the holidays are over because of, well, inertia. It is beneficial to maintain some healthy habits during the holidays so you can get right back on your feet once they are over while indulging in your favorite comfort foods as well!
Maintain an Easy Exercise Routine
You can have fun during the holidays and get a bit of exercise as well. You don’t have to run on the treadmill for an hour or pump iron for half the day, to get your metabolism running though, exercise during the holidays can also be laid back like the rest of your routine.
You can try to go for a walk in the morning, do some light yoga or stretches, or use the treadmill for a bit. The more you can do the better it will be, the point is to not forego all physical activity just because it is a jolly time.
Incorporate Healthy Foods in Your Diet
Roast dinners, Macaroni and Cheese, mashed potatoes, chocolate pies, they are all holiday favorites. You can binge on them to your heart’s content but make sure you put something wholesome in your body as well. For example, sample the green veggies on the table or take in some fruit during the day. You can take green tea during the day to keep your appetite in check and even use a cup to wash down the dinner you have just devoured.
Watch What You Eat
Try to watch what you put on your plate this holiday season. If you are trying to watch or lose weight, you can try to track the calories in the things you eat this season so they do not dampen your progress. If you don’t want to be so technical, just keep an eye out for your portion sizes and number of helpings. Remember that an average woman’s daily caloric requirement is 2000 calories and a man’s is 2500 calories.
Don’t Stress Out
It is important to not see the holidays as a stressful event. There are a lot of factors that can contribute to this, like nosy family members, and the obligation to eat foods that will hurt your health progress. Keep in mind that this time of the year is meant for relaxation and not stress. Keep your Zen vibes up, hold your head up high, and get through it.
Practice Mindfulness
As we said, it is important to practice mindfulness in times like the holidays since it is very easy to lose yourself in the commotion. Try to find a few minutes alone every day where you can meditate. If it is not possible, try to practice sleep meditation at night. Being in the moment and keeping your mind clear can save you from impulsive and detrimental decisions.
