5 ways to stay healthy, fit and on track around the holidays

This weekend is Halloween and I know I’m not the only one eyeing my kids Reese’s cups and Snickers in their trick or treat bag! 

Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner. We can all agree 2020 has been a difficult year with the pandemic and shut downs. Unfortunately we can't control the current situation, but we can choose to stay positive and focused on our health, family, and goals.  Try not to let the pandemic and holiday season be an excuse to let your health go. 

Here are some tips to keep you on track and healthy this holiday season:

  1. Mindful eating. Eat small portions and choose your snacks wisely.  This may be hard when making those delicious Christmas cookies, but moderation is key especially during the holidays. Pay attention to how certain foods make you feel and why you are eating them. Before you snack or eat a treat, check in to see if you're hungry. If you're not hungry, try waiting 15 minutes and see if you still want the treat.
  2. Plan wisely.   Have you ever attended a party hungry?  I have. And I think I grabbed every carbohydrate there was on the table, only to regret it later.  Make sure to plan ahead before attending any gathering where you know there will be lots of treats or unhealthy food.  Stay hydrated and eat protein to keep yourself full before attending the party, this way you can graze on small portions of snacks or candy, rather than eating everything in sight. 
  3. Continue to exercise and stay active.   Just because it is the most wonderful time of the year, doesn’t mean you have to stop working out. Make sure to plan your workouts weekly, just like any other time of the year! Continue to squeeze in as much exercise or extra movement throughout the day as you can. If you are not sure where to start, check out my IG page or Healthy Mama Huddle FB group where I provide plenty of FREE exercises!
  4. Watch your stress levels and sleep quality.  This time of the year is when stress and anxiety are on the rise.  Keeping your stress levels low and getting adequate sleep is essential for your body to function well. If needed, add time in your day to relax and recharge. Look for ways to simplify tasks so that you're not stressed or overwhelmed.
  5. Stay focused on your goals and end 2020 strong. While this year has not gone as planned, do not give up on the remaining 9 weeks of the year. Set a small goal to achieve by January 1, 2021, and I’m sure you will feel so much better and accomplished.  You do not have to wait until January to make a resolution or health goal- why not get a head start now?

Enjoy the holidays with your family.  Yes, I said to enjoy and indulge a little- it’s one day.  One meal on Thanksgiving and Christmas is not going to completely derail your weight loss or health plan- but continuing the poor eating habits and lack of exercise from Thanksgiving through the new year certainly will. So enjoy the mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie during the holidays- and know you will get back on track afterward. 

If you need more tips on healthy habits and postpartum support, head on over to the Healthy Mama Huddle!