The Holidays bring about many temptations and challenges, but also a lot of fun and love.

Sit down, take a moment and absorb some suggestions (below) which might help you stay healthy over the next month and a half: (can you believe Christmas is almost a month away?!)

1. The “Holidays” consist of 3 days from here forward…Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Eve! Just 3 days!!
2. Remember one very important “tip” before heading out to a holiday party with all the rich foods, desserts, and drinks – EAT before you go! Yes, EAT! That way you will have the chance to have something healthy and when you get to the party – you won’t be so quick to devour a plate of goodies.
3. Sugars, fats, and sodium do more damage than just add calories to your figure – they cause fatigue, headaches, stomach upset and bloating. Remember, you will pay dearly afterwards.
4. Find a “Holiday Buddy” who will agree to eat sensibly with you over the holidays. Challenge each other and hold each other accountable. Join our “no sweets during the Holidays club” or find a nutritional accountability coach. I know a good one!
5. Keep track of what you eat in a food journal. A journal also holds you accountable and you won’t be so likely to cheat if you know you must document it. You can also share this with your Holiday Buddy via text or email.
6. Be proactive – think ahead to how another 5 – 10 pounds (or more) will look on your figure by the time the holidays are over. Is that what you really want? Maybe it wouldn’t be so unrealistic to actually be in better shape come January!
7. Treat yourself to a new outfit on January 7th – as long as you haven’t gained any weight between Christmas and New Years. If you are on a budget, pull out an outfit you have right now which you love and fits snug. Have that as your goal for January 7th!

Exercise

Do you want to know what the real trick is to starting and staying on an exercise plan? It’s not only the actual exercising – it’s the thinking, planning, feeling, and preparing.

1. Sometimes we do things out of obligation, guilt, peer pressure, etc. If you really want to begin an exercise program you must feel committed, know you’re ready, plan, and prepare for a permanent change.
2. Know that exercise (and nutrition) needs to be a permanent lifestyle change. Our bodies aren’t made to be sedentary – they need to move. Daily! Meaning, exercise must be consistent and forever. An understanding of this will set your mental stage and you’ll have a better chance of success.
3. Buddy up with someone (friend, coworker, personal trainer) who can support and motivate you. This person should also hold you accountable.
4. Know what you’re doing when it comes to exercise. There are many different methods, programs, and techniques for exercise. Plan out your strategy before you begin a program.
5. Plan out your workout schedule (days, times, length, etc.)
6. Organize your gym clothes, set the alarm, have an alternate plan in case of rain, etc. The more organized you are – the less chance you’ll have of making excuses NOT to workout.
7. Plan an exercise program you’ll enjoy. If it’s a chore – forget it. If you don’t think any exercise is fun – that’s just plain negative thinking! This might be the time to think about getting a personal trainer just for the Holidays!
8. Be prepared to chart your progress – because you will see progress! Charting it will help keep you motivated.

Have a blast. Enjoy family, friends, and festivities and make the Holidays about the experiences vs. the food!