The season has arrived to celebrate and like most of us…celebrating entails lots of drinks, laughs, music and yes…FOOD! Read below on our tips on how to not pack on the infamous holiday pounds and if you already have…how to lose the extra weight before bringing in the New Year!
RULE # 1 – DRINK LOTS OF WATER
Drinking water in general is very important. Water promotes younger skin, shinier hair and a healthier body to name a few, but during the holidays when stress can run high, and gatherings are stocked with alcohol and foods galore…drinking water prevents dehydration, replaces high-calorie options, helps with weight loss and fills your stomach to prevent from overeating!
RULE # 2 – STAY ACTIVE
One of the most common things that happen during the holidays is that we lose our exercise mojo. Our attention is diverted by running around, visiting with friends and family, or possibly just staying in because of the weather. Don’t let go of your regular schedule! Make time to stay on track, whether it be going to the gym, or just implementing some routines at home.
RULE # 3 – EAT!!!
A lot of mistakes people make are that they go on fasts/diets to drop a quick few pounds and when the holidays come around, pack on twice the weight because they are so hungry they eat double what they normally would because of the deficit. Eat in moderation. You are after longevity, not a quick fix.
RULE # 4 – DON’T DEPRIVE YOURSELF
If you love chocolate…eat chocolate! Another mistake many make is that they don’t go for what they want and then binge on something else to fill the void. If someone makes your favorite chocolate cake during the holidays, have a piece…just always make sure you serve yourself in moderation.
RULE # 5 – DON’T START A NEW DIET
Do not start a new diet during the holidays! That is setting yourself up for failure and creating a negative energy around a time that should be very special. Set a realistic time plan and goal and keep in mind that if you indulge a bit during the holidays, you can give yourself a rule to work out for each extra piece of pecan pie you eat!
RULE # 6 – CONTROL YOURSELF
A lot of people stretch the holidays as an excuse to continue overeating. The holidays…are just that. Days. So treat them as such. Enjoy yourself in the moment and get back on track as soon as the day is over.
RULE # 7 – GIVE A GIFT TO YOURSELF
Because the holidays can also be a stressful time, make sure you make time for yourself – because stress is known to be a major contributor towards overeating and bingeing during the holidays. Whatever makes you feel good, whether it’s a spa day, getting your nails and hair done, or just taking a bubble bath…do that.
RULE # 8 – GET SLEEP
Studies have shown that those that get less sleep are hungrier than those that get a good night’s rest. It has been confirmed that anyone that gets under 6 ½ hours of sleep consumes 500 calories more than someone who has at least 8 hours. Make sure to make time for sleep and keep the extra weight off!
RULE # 9 – THINK POSITIVE
Research has shown that your thoughts definitely affect your attitude towards food. If you believe you’re overweight and that you are prone to binge…you will! Change your thoughts and your perspective and attitude towards food and life in general will change.
RULE # 10 – ENJOY YOURSELF
The holidays are all about love, family, friends and enjoying yourself. Make sure to have fun and allow yourself to soak in the moment. Looking forward to eating actually reduces the “appetite hormone” in your body and you have more control over bingeing and over-eating when the opportunity comes about.
By Elizabette Quezada
LifeStyleHer is geared toward empowering women to have a positive outlook on all aspects of life. Styling lives from the inside out, founder, Mashonda Tifrere aims to educate and enrich the mind, body, and soul of all women. LifeStyleHer covers a variety of topics including; fashion, beauty, health & wellness, relationships, travel & food, and arts & entertainment. LifeStyleHer gives women an outlet to experience personal gratitude on a universal level.
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