It’s Friday, so I’m linking up with Running on Happy and Fairytales and Fitness for the new Friday Five 2.0. Their theme this week is “5 Things I’d Buy All Over Again.” I’m having a mental block on this one, so I’m going to go with “5 Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season.” I need the reminders this year, for sure. The last few years I’ve focused on ways to stay healthy and sane over the holidays. So… I bring you “5 Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season.”
1. Enjoy everything … in moderation. A few indulgences won’t mess up your health and fitness routine, but a few indulgences every day can. So pick your favorites treats and traditions and stick with them on a few occasions. And remember, there will be more next year! (I am looking at you left over candy corn!)
2. Sign up for an event or fitness challenge. The last two years I signed up for winter marathons. This year, I plan to work out with a personal trainer again after a few years off. Happy Birthday to me! I may sign up for some fitness challenges. I need to get motivated with specific goals and challenges- do you?
3. Exercise in the morning or with friends… or both. If possible, exercise in the morning. Most parties don’t happen before 8 AM – just saying. Have trouble getting up in the morning? Get some friends to join you. It is much easier to meet morning exercise commitments if there is someone waiting for you out in the cold! Plus you get to spend time with friends which is a win-win! Also consider doing some exercise with family (or alone) over the holidays. We hit the hills in LA for Christmas. If there’s a Santa Hustle or other race in your town see if you can get folks to walk, run or spectate with you. Make it a family tradition – it’s never too late to start.
4. Eat healthy meals (when possible) and keep healthy snacks on hand. For most of us, every day will not be a party. Try to eat healthy, balanced meals whenever possible. And whatever you do, don’t “save room for later” and go to parties hungry. That is a recipe for disaster. Offer to host some meals or festivities or to bring some dishes, that way you can have some control over what is served.
5. Don’t say “yes” to everything. This pertains to sweets and treats and events. It is OK to politely decline some things to take care of your health and well being. Or if you do wind up going to tons of extra events, set a timer and stay for an hour. If there are “food pushers” in your office (or life) keep healthy snacks around and politely decline some holiday treats. Holidays can be a whirlwind and a lot of stress. It is OK to take some time-outs and take care of yourself.
And if you are traveling during the holidays, don’t miss 10 Ways to Stay Health (and Sane) When You Travel.
What are your tips for staying healthy and sane for the holidays? Please leave your tips in the comments.
PS. Don’t forget my great giveaways!