Thanksgiving may be over, but for many of us, the food-coma hasn’t gone away. Don’t let one day of indulging ruin your health and fitness goals. Treating yourself is important for a balanced lifestyle, but considering Thanksgiving through New Year's one long cheat day is not doing yourself any favors. Follow this guide for some easy tips to stay happy, healthy and merry this holiday season.
1. Make exercise a priority
The holidays aren’t the best time for you to start training for the Boston Marathon. Stay consistent and squeeze in short workouts whenever possible. Many yoga, barre and cycling studios offer 45 minute classes that are guaranteed to help you burn tons of calories in a short amount of time.
2. Get plenty of sleep
Even Santa’s elves need their beauty sleep. Plan ahead and shop early this holiday season, so you aren’t stuck wrapping late Christmas Eve.
3. Snack wisely
Resisting the urge to devour peppermint bark all day long can be very challenging. Keep your pantry and purse stocked with healthy options to help battle the holiday cravings. I recommend a piece of fruit, string cheese, nuts or a protein bar. These healthy snacks will help fight temptation and keep you fuller, longer.
4. Stay hydrated
As temperatures plunge, our natural instinct isn’t always to reach for the water. Whether you exercise regularly or not, hydration is key to staying healthy. Start carrying a reusable water bottle in your car, purse or backpack for easy access and the ability to refill anywhere.
5. Have a glass (not a bottle!)
Egg nog, champagne, mulled wine - pick your poison, but act responsibly. No one likes a party guest who can’t handle themselves. Limit yourself to two drinks and alternate each with a glass of water. You’ll be happy you did.
6. Focus on the holiday, not the food
In the end, holidays are about spending time with those you love. Don’t slave away in the kitchen trying to make homemade cranberry sauce. Trust me, everyone prefers the canned version anyway.
7. Wash your hands
Keep hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes on hand at all times. You wouldn’t believe how many germs are on plane tray tables, shopping cart handles or escalator rails. Clean these surfaces with a wipe or sanitize your hands after you touch them to prevent picking up the germs someone else left behind.
8. Call (don’t text) your Grandma
Even if your grandma is an expert on using Bitmoji like mine, nothing beats an old-fashion phone call. Whether you talk once a week or once a year, let your loved ones know how much they mean to you.
9. It's okay to say no!
Don’t be afraid to say no to this year’s office Christmas party. Enough said.
10. Pay it Forward
Whether you’re volunteering at the local food bank or buying a coffee for the person behind you in line, pay it forward this month. You’ll make someone’s day and you can feel good about it too.
11. Treat yourself
Sit in the massage chair at the mall kiosk. Get your nails done. Read a book. Whatever you need to do to unwind, do it! Take an hour or so for yourself to relax and rejuvenate.
12. Be Merry!
Don’t let the holidays be a stressful time. Spend time with the people who matter most and remember the reason for the season!
