Happy Holidays

How to Stay on Track Over the Holidays

While the holiday season is usually full of spirit, laughter, and joy, it is also attached with a gluttonous amount of food and drink. The busyness of Christmas shopping, family gatherings, and holiday parties become a common excuse not to exercise. And the time off work and social aspect of this time of year also makes it more difficult to stick to a structured routine. For many of us, this is the time of year when our healthy habits start to slip and our waistlines begin to feel a little too much like Santa’s. So here’s a few tips to help you stay on track and be proactive about the new year.

  • 1
    Tip #1: Live By The 80/20 Rule (And Avoid The Restrictive Mentality!)
    The reason why so many people fall off track is because they think an all or nothing approach is the only way to move forward. So inevitably, once the holiday season begins they think, “well what’s the point of even trying? I’m just going to eat what I want and start fresh in the new year.” But that mentality can be dangerous, and does not align with a balanced, sustainable approach to healthy living. The truth is, most people CAN have a couple drinks here and there. They CAN enjoy Christmas dinner with all the fixings. They CAN have a sweet treat. Just not ALL THE TIME. You will definitely have to say no to certain things. So pick what you want to limit (alcohol is a good one), practice portion control, but also enjoy some indulgences in moderation.
  • 2
    Tip #2: Take Ownership Of Your Choices
    If you decide to stay on track this holiday season, you should feel good about your choice. And remember that that’s what it is – a choice. Just like going off track is a choice. Don’t use this time of year as an excuse. Don’t blame events, people, holidays, parties, etc. for your choices. When you can be honest with yourself and take responsibility for your actions, it can help you fight the fear of failure and allow you to step out of your comfort zone – both necessary in the process of building and sustaining healthier habits.
  • 3
    Tip #3: Stay Hydrated
    I feel like a broken record talking about drinking enough water all the time, but it’s only because the benefits are so incredible and it’s really simple to do! It’s also important to acknowledge because most people will eat saltier foods and consume more alcohol this time of year, both which can lead to dehydration. Be sure to consume 2-3L a day, including plenty in the morning and throughout the day (before meals is best). If you’re drinking alcohol, having a glass of water in between drinks or mixing your drink with soda water is also a good strategy.
  • 4
    Tip #4: Don’t Neglect Your Workouts
    Most people get busy and stressed out during the holidays and might think it would make sense to skip their regular exercise routine. But this will only intensify stress levels and cause burnout, since working out is one of the best things you can do for your stress and energy levels. If you’re short on time, remember that a short workout is better than no workout. Try a quicker, more intense option if you’ve only got 20-30 minutes. You can also think of exercise as a way to boost your brain and body, rather than a chore to burn calories. Having the right mindset can make all the difference.
  • 5
    Tip #5: Don’t “Take A Break”
    If you feel the need to “take a break” over the holidays from healthy living, is it because it’s a special occasion that only happens once a year? Well, so is Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving, birthdays, anniversaries, vacations…shall I go on? Do you plan to “take a break” during all these events, too? And the truth is, if you feel the need to “take a break”, then what you’re currently doing is not sustainable.

    Remember, when it comes to living well, think big picture – this is not a quick fix. It’s not a restrictive diet. It’s not a temporary solution. If you think that way, you’ll always be on a rollercoaster of ups and downs (yo-yo dieting) without ever getting to where you want to go.

    If you need help staying on track over the holidays (or at any point of the year), consider Infinity Nutrition & Health Coaching. Our customized approach to holistic health will provide you with the tools to build healthier habits that become a permanent part of your life. Our programs offer the accountability and support you need to finally find something that works year round! Visit our website for more information, and give us a follow on Instagram and Facebook.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Happy Holidays

How to Stay on Track Over the Holidays

While the holiday season is usually full of spirit, laughter, and joy, it is also attached with a gluttonous amount of food and drink. The busyness of Christmas shopping, family gatherings, and holiday parties become a common excuse not to exercise. And the time off work and social aspect of this time of year also makes it more difficult to stick to a structured routine. For many of us, this is the time of year when our healthy habits start to slip and our waistlines begin to feel a little too much like Santa’s. So here’s a few tips to help you stay on track and be proactive about the new year.

  • 1
    Tip #1: Live By The 80/20 Rule (And Avoid The Restrictive Mentality!)
    The reason why so many people fall off track is because they think an all or nothing approach is the only way to move forward. So inevitably, once the holiday season begins they think, “well what’s the point of even trying? I’m just going to eat what I want and start fresh in the new year.” But that mentality can be dangerous, and does not align with a balanced, sustainable approach to healthy living. The truth is, most people CAN have a couple drinks here and there. They CAN enjoy Christmas dinner with all the fixings. They CAN have a sweet treat. Just not ALL THE TIME. You will definitely have to say no to certain things. So pick what you want to limit (alcohol is a good one), practice portion control, but also enjoy some indulgences in moderation.
  • 2
    Tip #2: Take Ownership Of Your Choices
    If you decide to stay on track this holiday season, you should feel good about your choice. And remember that that’s what it is – a choice. Just like going off track is a choice. Don’t use this time of year as an excuse. Don’t blame events, people, holidays, parties, etc. for your choices. When you can be honest with yourself and take responsibility for your actions, it can help you fight the fear of failure and allow you to step out of your comfort zone – both necessary in the process of building and sustaining healthier habits.
  • 3
    Tip #3: Stay Hydrated
    I feel like a broken record talking about drinking enough water all the time, but it’s only because the benefits are so incredible and it’s really simple to do! It’s also important to acknowledge because most people will eat saltier foods and consume more alcohol this time of year, both which can lead to dehydration. Be sure to consume 2-3L a day, including plenty in the morning and throughout the day (before meals is best). If you’re drinking alcohol, having a glass of water in between drinks or mixing your drink with soda water is also a good strategy.
  • 4
    Tip #4: Don’t Neglect Your Workouts
    Most people get busy and stressed out during the holidays and might think it would make sense to skip their regular exercise routine. But this will only intensify stress levels and cause burnout, since working out is one of the best things you can do for your stress and energy levels. If you’re short on time, remember that a short workout is better than no workout. Try a quicker, more intense option if you’ve only got 20-30 minutes. You can also think of exercise as a way to boost your brain and body, rather than a chore to burn calories. Having the right mindset can make all the difference.
  • 5
    Tip #5: Don’t “Take A Break”
    If you feel the need to “take a break” over the holidays from healthy living, is it because it’s a special occasion that only happens once a year? Well, so is Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving, birthdays, anniversaries, vacations…shall I go on? Do you plan to “take a break” during all these events, too? And the truth is, if you feel the need to “take a break”, then what you’re currently doing is not sustainable.

    Remember, when it comes to living well, think big picture – this is not a quick fix. It’s not a restrictive diet. It’s not a temporary solution. If you think that way, you’ll always be on a rollercoaster of ups and downs (yo-yo dieting) without ever getting to where you want to go.

    If you need help staying on track over the holidays (or at any point of the year), consider Infinity Nutrition & Health Coaching. Our customized approach to holistic health will provide you with the tools to build healthier habits that become a permanent part of your life. Our programs offer the accountability and support you need to finally find something that works year round! Visit our website for more information, and give us a follow on Instagram and Facebook.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!