How do you get through Thanksgiving, Christmas AND New Year’s without completely falling off the wagon or gaining those winter pounds? It’s so easy to get overwhelmed with all the delicious treats and sweets & halt your workout routine. I’m here to tell you that you CAN stick with it and still enjoy the season!!
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO CONSIDER:
STAY HYDRATED
First things first: make sure that you are drinking of plenty of water. It’s that simple. Grab a water bottle to take with you wherever you go. Holiday shopping, Friendsgiving, and even a walk around the neighborhood with the family - take your water with you! One of my best tips is to drink water first thing in the morning (before putting anything else in) and on the day of a big holiday meal.
EAT PROTEIN & VEGGIES FIRST
When you eat your protein and veggies first, you’re more satisfied and less likely to be tempted to over-indulge. No veggies at your gathering? Be the one to bring the healthy side dish! Dessert is always the first to get covered, but trust me, everyone will be thanking you that you brought the delicious & nutritious veggies. Need a good recipe? Good thing I just launched a COOKBOOK (that’s literally called Nutritious and Delicious.) If you’re hosting, then make sure to have a couple healthy dishes along with the traditional dishes so everyone (and you!) have options. Roasted Fall Veggies and a festive salad highlighting seasonal ingredients are two of my favorites recipes that you’ll find in the cookbook that are also crowd-pleasers.
Even though there are plenty of opportunities for indulgence through the holiday season, there are also plenty of days and meals in between to fuel your body with those green smoothies, delicious seasonal soups and salads, balance and moderation are the names of the game.
MOVE YOUR BODY AND MAKE IT FUN
Plan ahead & get it done early! Try to schedule in your workouts and make them in the morning. Don’t stress if you don’t have a whole hour or can’t get to the gym, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing - knock out a 20-minute workout and move on. That’s what the Stronger Together Community is all about! Invite friends and family to workout with you, too! It doesn’t need to be the most intense workout you’ve ever done - keep it simple! For example, participate in a local turkey trot or holiday run, or organize your own family walk/run, soccer game, football game, or a hike at the closest state park!
ENJOY THE SEASON
Here’s the thing, we can’t deprive ourselves - it doesn’t work and only leads to self-sabotage. This time of year is the best because of all the incredible homemade food that brings us together! I’m here to encourage you to taste it all. Don’t deprive yourself, just be mindful of your portion sizes.
I hope this gives you hope & practical tips to get you through the holidays in a way that’s healthy & sets you up to hit your goals in 2022! Remember, be present, relax, laugh, enjoy the time spent together with your loved ones.