Latest update January 20th, 2025 4:00 AM
Simple ways to keep fit during the holidays
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and we are all ready to celebrate! Celebrating however should not mean we let ourselves go completely and forget all about our hard work during the year, especially if you have been tirelessly trying to lose weight- now is not the time to give up.
It can be quite easy to tell ourselves after the holidays, we’ll get back to the gym and re-start our normal diets.
I am here to share a few simple things you can do during the holiday season to stay healthy.
Drink lots of water
Water is perhaps one of the most beneficial liquids you can use during the day to keep fuelling your body. Cut back on the sugary drinks and juices and try as much as possible to consume as much water as you possibly can.
Water (H2O) can for example help to fight illnesses such as constipation, migraines, urinary tract infection, kidney stones, exercise-induced asthma, hypertension, and even diabetes.
Stay active
I know this one may be a no-brainer and you are probably thinking I need to get so much done; of course I will be active! Remember, cleaning your home, cooking and decorating will not be enough.
If you feel like you simply cannot find the time to exercise, you can just substitute your regular routine by parking your car a further distance from your work place to get some walking done, using the stairs instead of an elevator at the mall, and have fun with your family playing games that may include running or walking.
Use alcohol moderately
Some people look forward to the Christmas season to imbibe daily to their hearts delight. I am hoping, dear faithful reader, that this isn’t you! Besides the usual dangers of alcohol that we are aware of such as liver and kidney damage, too much alcohol can actually affect your weight.
In fact, research shows that it does this by preventing your body from burning fat, it can make you feel hungry, and it can lead to cravings for salty and greasy foods that make you gain weight.
Distance yourself from food
Now I know this heading will make you squint, trying to understand what I mean. If you know you generally find it difficult to resist food, sit further away from the food table at parties or socials.
In fact, I believe old people say “wah eye nah see, mouth nah want!” This is a good principle and it has worked for me in the past! Not seeing or smelling the tempting desserts especially will do wonders for your body!
Eat before you go out
If you are already on a strict diet, it would be wise to have a meal before you leave the house. Doing this will keep you full and prevent you from indulging in foods that may not be healthy for your body or simply devouring everything when you arrive at a party.
Try having some fruits or a vegetable salad. If you are invited to a party and didn’t get time to have a snack, you can try to pack your plate with most of the good stuff. For example, if you have a variety of dishes to choose from, try to make at least half your plate salad and veggies – minus the potatoes. These choices contain very few calories and sugar, but have all the good stuff you need to fill you up.
Get enough sleep
We may want to sit up all night waiting for Santa, or enjoying ourselves otherwise, but this is not the best way to celebrate the festive season. In fact, your body needs enough rest all year round.
Be sure not to compromise on your sleep, as this recharges your body and is the best way to do so rather than chugging down cups of coffee or bottles of energy drinks the following day.
There is a very strong connection between sleep quality and quantity and your immune system. You can keep your immune system functioning properly by getting seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
Ditch the all-or-nothing mindset
Pushing exercise in at least 15 minutes per day is better than not doing any. Remember staying fit and overall wellness does not require perfection. If you can get some physical activity in, get it done and do not tell yourself that I have to aim for 30 minutes each day for this to make sense.
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