Holiday Season Springboard to Better Health
by Helen Hamlin, health coach
Let’s think about the upcoming holiday season as a challenge to maintain or attain healthy habits rather than use it as an excuse to indulge ourselves.
I encourage you to use this holiday season as a springboard toward better health for 2012!
Envision yourself waking up on the morning of Jan. 1 with a smile, full of energy, a positive mental attitude, and (perhaps!) even 10 pounds healthier because you spent the past month improving rather than minimizing your health.
Here is a list of helpful hints to help minimize unhealthy behavior during the holiday season:
- Get plenty of sleep and relaxation. Stress can be a trigger to eat excessively.
- Make a list of your long-range health goals and recommit to them prior to the holiday season.
- Choose to make or buy holiday treats that are easier for you to resist. If you dislike coconut, make some macaroons!
- Don’t waste precious time lamenting over an over-indulgence, just get right back to making healthful food choices and increase your exercise.
- Get your friends and family involved in physical activities rather than sitting around.
- If attending a potluck, prepare a healthy dish that you will enjoy without guilt.
- Send leftovers home with your guests.
- Volunteer to be the designated driver – a great excuse to avoid calorie-laden alcoholic drinks.
- Enjoy the company around you by not positioning yourself near the food tables.
- Rather than feeling like you are “giving up” holiday sugar and fat, consider that you will be giving yourself a wonderful gift for the holidays – Good Health!
Enjoy a wonderful and healthy holiday season!
Helen Hamlin, health coach
404-803-8039
www.helenhamlin1@yahoo.com