Staying Healthy and Fit This Holiday Season

WOW...How is Christmas only 2 days away?!?! I feel like it was Thanksgiving like last week. Although can we talk about this weather and the fact that it is going to be in the 70's on Christmas Day! Anyone else excited about getting some outdoor workouts in?





Speaking of workouts, there are only 8 days left in 2015. Keep going...you got this!

Here are some ways you can stay on track and have a healthier holiday:

1. Stay Active  - I know this time of year you have holiday parties, shopping, and baking to do, but don't mistake being busy for being active. Don't make excuses. There are plenty of short workouts that you can squeeze in between all of the hustle and bustle. Check out this no-weight, at-home glute workout from Happy Food Healthy Life. 

2. Try Healthier Recipes - Pinterest and blogs are the best places to search for healthy recipes. Check out these Chocolate Protein Bites from one of my earlier posts. 

3. Stay Organized - Remember that post about planners and making lists? Keep a list of errands, groceries and gifts. The less time you spend running around the more time you'll have for yourself (which means getting to the gym).

4. Get More Steps - Returning or exchanging those unwanted gifts? Park far-away to increase your steps, get more exercise and burn off all those sweets.

5. Vitamin D - Take advantage of this unseasonably warm weather and get some sun. You'll feel better and increase your energy levels during, what can be, a stressful time of year. 

6. Stay Healthy - It's that time of year where cold and flu season strikes. Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer to avoid getting sick and missing out on all the holiday fun.

7. Say No - Just because everyone else is stuffing their face with cookies, cake and pie doesn't mean you have to. Everything in moderation. You can reduce the amount of calories by cutting portion sizes down and eating bite-sized pieces.

8. Bring a Healthy Dish - If heading out to a party, make a healthy dish that you can eat in case there isn't a healthy option. 

9. Start a New Tradition - Take a walk, go to the park, or maybe volunteer at a soup kitchen to help those in need.

10. Rest Up - Sleep!!!! Don't skimp on resting during the holidays. Sleep in, plan your days so you can still get a good 8 hours of sleep.

11. Water - Yes...drink lots of water and stay hydrated. Don't forget to drink water between all of the wine, cocktails, beer and eggnog. 

12. De-Stress - Stay calm and relaxed. Meditate, journal, exercise and focus on your goals for the upcoming year.

13. Set Goals - Let's be honest...how many of us actually stick to resolutions? Try and make lifestyle changes that you can stick to all year long not just January - March. 

14. Stay Positive - Don't get upset if you miss a workout or have too many glasses of wine. Just get back on track and keep a positive attitude. 

15. Take Time For You - It's easy to think about everyone else this time of year, but I encourage all of you to take some time for yourself even if it's just a couple hours a week. Take a bubble bath, go to yoga, meditate, hit up a coffee shop for some reading and maybe sneak in a Sunday afternoon nap.

Cheers to a Healthy Holiday!!

Emily