During the holidays it’s easy to forget the importance of health and fitness. With so many mouth-watering foods all around us, most of us tend to neglect our diets during November and December. Remember that it is much more difficult to get back on track after you fall off the ‘eat clean train’. Fortunately, there are ways to enjoy the season without gaining weight and losing motivation.
Here are ways to stay happy and healthy this year during the holiday season.
Drink more water
One of the most effective ways to managing your weight is by drinking more water. Even if you splurge, water will help suppress your appetite so you don’t drink too much. It also has the power to flush fat from your system. When you lack hydration, fat cells stick to your body. Water helps you use fat deposits for energy. Have you ever noticed that when you’re fully hydrated you don’t feel tired? Water breaks down glycerol and tissues then consumes fatty acids. This chemical breakdown produces energy and fuel.
Participate in Physical Activity
It’s really hard to hit the gym when you’re busy working every day – Christmas shopping and attending holiday parties. If you can’t exercise as often as you’d like, try to participate in physical activity for at least 15-20 minutes per day. While it may not be as rigorous as a workout, it is important that you keep up with the cardio as it will help you regulate your mood, weight and hormones which in turn promotes happiness and prevents weight gain.
Treat yourself
If you tend to get depressed around the holidays due to a lack of family or friends, taking care of yourself is even more important. The holidays don’t have to be a time to spend with other people – they can be a time of appreciation and giving. Consider how many people are in the same situation as you. It’s your job to make the best of your circumstances and do something for yourself. Besides eating well and exercising, don’t be afraid to spend money on what you want for the holidays. If you don’t have much financial clout, consider doing something you enjoy or traveling to relieve stress.
Give to Others
One of the best ways to feel good about yourself is to give to others. Being Christmas is a time to give, take advantage of everyone in need during the holiday season. Volunteer at your local shelter or donate money to a children’s program – such as ‘Toys for Tots.’ By giving to others who don’t have much at Christmas, it will help you appreciate what you have instead of comparing your happiness to that of others.
To stay happy and healthy during the holidays you have to take the initiative. Continue to exercise when you can, eat clean and participate in activities that make you feel good and increase your self-esteem.
Robert J Hudson is the head writer for Evolution-Slimming.com, a passionate nutritionist and personal trainer. Over the years she has shared her experience by writing for health and wellness magazines, blogs and review sites. Connect with him on Google+.
