Thriving Through the Holidays: Tips to Stay on Track

The Holiday season has arrived! This often means a busy schedule, family gatherings, work events, and big meals. Below are a few tips to help you stay on track with your goals, and not have to stress about your Holiday events.

1. Get your steps in – Going for a walk before and/or after Holiday meals can help to promote digestion and reduce bloating.

2. Stay hydrated – Drinking water throughout the day and with your meal can help to promote digestion, reduce bloating, and help to avoid constipation. Aim for a minimum of 1L daily!

3. Don’t restrict meals – Make sure to eat throughout the day leading up to your meal, restricting food to “save” your calories can often lead to overeating or binging on foods later. Focus on eating vegetables and protein through the day to keep yourself satiated with healthy options that include high fibre, to aid in digesting your larger meal.

4. Be mindful of alcohol intake – Holiday events often include alcohol, which is high in calories and has a negative effect on your body’s physiology. Try to drink one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage you have, this will minimize dehydration and help prevent hangovers!

5. Take smaller portions – Use a smaller plate to portion your food and eat slowly & mindfully. Before going back for seconds, take a few minutes to let your brain catch up to your stomach to see if you’re still hungry or not.

6. Stay in your fitness routine – Continue to workout in your normal routine, if you don’t have time to get to the gym choose another activity to stay active! This could be going for a walk, doing a home workout, or even participating in outdoor activities such as skiing or snowshoeing.

7. ENJOY the meal guilt free – Having a healthy lifestyle means allowing yourself to enjoy the holidays with friends and family, so go ahead and eat your Holiday meal(s) without guilt.

If you have questions or want more tips, contact one of our Health & Fitness professionals today at personaltraining@heavensacademy.com Join a class. Check out the schedule. https://www.heavensacademy.com/see-schedule