I can't believe it's already December 1st! This year is flying by. I hope that everyone had a healthy and happy Thanksgiving.
I set a goal, and accomplished it. I had said I wanted to get my 200 hour yoga certification this year, and as of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, I did. I am so grateful for everyone's support!
This holiday season, let's focus on family and friends. I know that it seems like there are diet dangers around every corner, and every weekend, at all of the holiday parties you will be attending. Have no fear. Sweater weather doesn't mean that you automatically will gain weight.
Fitness
The temperature is dropping, it's getting darker earlier, staying motivated when you could be cuddled up in front of a fireplace while sipping hot cocoa eating Christmas cookies is a struggle.
I know, but bundle up and head out. It's that time of year when everyone is looking for fun activities to do while celebrating.
Why not find an ice skating rink? Lace up those skates spend some time on the ice. Then, head home and curl up while watching Christmas movies.
Remember, exercise is not supposed to be torture. Have fun with it. Throw snowballs, build a snowman. It all counts.
Nutrition
Holiday parties are a minefield when it comes to nutrition. What is a health conscious person to do?
1) NEVER go to a party on an empty stomach!
2) Make yourself a small plate with veggies and healthy foods. Grab just one, maybe 2, cookies.
3) Try and spend your entire night nowhere near the snacks. If you see them, you'll be tempted to eat them.
4) Limit yourself to just one cocktail.
We don't go to holiday parties to eat, we go to spend time with family and friends. With that in mind, spend your time chatting with that coworker you've never really spent much time with. Have a dance off with your 3 year old cousin. In other-words, socialize.
Mind and Body
The holiday season is a historically stressful season. You're worrying about all of the parties you need to attend, trying to figure out how to navigate all of the food and drinks you will encounter without gaining a ton of weight, how in the world are you going to fit your workouts in, you will be forced to interact with all of the relatives you avoid on a regular basis, and on top of it all, you need to spend money on gifts for these people, while still struggling to buy food and pay your rent.
Take a breather.
All of that stress is so terrible for you. It doesn't make things get better. It just causes your body to release crazy hormones to try and help you battle your perceived dangers. Those hormones, then add to the craziness.
Stop.
Find a nice quiet space. And do this nice, relaxing 15 minute yoga practice.
Remember, this holiday season, spend time with friends and family. Go out, do things with those that you love. The holidays are a great time for getting some much needed love and quality time in.
Peace, love and light,
Kris