You can and should enjoy this time of year. But remember, no matter where you are, you always have choices. Always strive to make the best decision based on your options.
Healthy Lifestyle Tip: Simple and Sensible
Of course you know this stuff, but in the interest of limiting the January pain, here’s a quick refresher course:
1. Change your definitions of full. After most meals, you should feel as if you could get up, go outside and take a brisk walk. Stop eating when you get to that point.
2. Make a plan. Think about where you will be, who you will be with, what foods will be available, what foods are really special to you vs. those that you could probably do without, what are your personal triggers to overeat and how you can minimize them. Once you’ve thought about all of these things, make a plan of action.
3. Quit judging yourself by the foods you eat. You’re not necessarily “good” if you eat a salad or “bad” if you eat fudge. They’re both just food. And all foods are allowed – it’s the amount you eat that you have to watch. Don’t rush through the experience.
4. Forget “all or nothing.” If you’re feeling that you’ve already “blown it” with a doughnut in the morning, don’t use that feeling as an excuse to raid the cookie jar at night. Instead, think of ways to be physically active 30 minutes a day.
5. Get a move on. In addition to burning calories, exercise is a great way to deal with stress. Exercise is the fountain of youth and one of the best investments you can make for your health.