by Lynn Bode,
CFT
http://www.workoutsforyou.com
©
2007 Although the holiday season is meant for a time of
rejoicing, relaxing and spending time with the ones we love, it more often than
not ends up being a hectic time laden with stress. This stress often leads to
abandonment of exercise routines, overeating and lack of sleep. And, all of these
resulting issues actually cause more stress which can lead to a vicious circle. It
doesn't have to be that way! With a little planning and common sense, you can
turn this holiday season around right now and truly enjoy the time while also
taking care of yourself. Use our six-week holiday survival guide below to stay
fit, healthy and stress free (or at least less stressful) during this year's festivities. Four
to Six Weeks Out - Start by marking down the dates you have specific
commitments that can't be altered (e.g. dinner with your Aunt and Uncle, office
holiday party, etc).
- Commit to a minimum of 60 minutes per week
of cardio activity and 30 minutes per week of strength training. It doesn't matter
how long each session is only that you complete the total amount in each seven
day period. So, you may do 10 minutes one day, 5 minutes the next and 20 minutes
another day. These sessions should also be scheduled as appointments on your calendar.
- Promise
to be realistic with your treat indulgences. A small piece of pie two or three
times during the season and a few cookies here and there is perfectly fine. After
all, if you are too strict with yourself you won't have an enjoyable season and
may ultimately indulge to an extreme. But, also don't allow yourself a free-for-all
on calories for six weeks or you'll be starting the new year with the unwanted
gift of extra pounds!
- Make a list of everything you need to do
to prepare for the holidays.
- Mark the items that you most look
forward to doing. For some this may be decorating your house or getting gifts
ready for charity (it can be anything - remember this is YOUR list).
- Now
get your calendar or online scheduler and mark the days that you will complete
each of the above tasks (keeping in mind the days you already marked for commitments).
- For
the items that you didn't mark (the ones you might actually dread), consider first
if they are necessary to do. If so, then find ways to make them more enjoyable.
For example, if you despise going to a shopping mall, then purchase gifts online
or make shopping more of an event - include a special lunch (alone or with someone)
and maybe a manicure for yourself to break up the day.
- Be sure
to also include in your schedule simple holiday pleasures (baking with kids or
other loved ones, checking out a holiday flick at the theatre, etc.)
- Strive
to get as much as is reasonable done before the three weeks out mark. This will
help you decrease your last minute stresses and help you stay on track with your
eating and fitness.
Less Than Three Weeks Out -
Evaluate your fitness and eating progress for the past three weeks. Have you been
able to stick to your 60 and 30 minute commitments? If so, give yourself a pat
on the back and keep going strong! If not, ask yourself why not? What's gotten
in the way of your plan? And, is it really more important than taking care of
yourself?
- Have you been eating 5 meals per day, drinking enough
water and limiting your indulgences? If you've been skipping meals and eating
cookies every day, then it's time to reevaluate your plan to determine how to
get back on track with your time.
- If despite your best efforts,
you are feeling behind on your tasks then why not hire some help and consider
it a gift to yourself. Think about how much your time is truly worth (remember,
time is money) and contract out accordingly. For example, consider hiring a cleaning
service to clean your house either for that upcoming party you are hosting or
just for your sanity.
- You might also consider using a gift wrapping
service. Also, use the time management strategy of delegation, and assign some
tasks to other family members.
- Don't forget to get enough sleep.
Lack of sleep leads to stress and stress leads to overeating. Fast forward to
January and all those hours of sleep you missed have now manifested as extra fat
on your body!
One Week Out - This is not
the time to rush around in a frenzy, lose sleep and get cranky with the ones you
love because you're stressed out. If you have a long list of to-dos left then
it's time to do some cutting.
- Many of us do what we do during
the holiday season just because we always have and think we have to stick to traditions.
But, do you really need to make 100 chocolate balls? It's time to drop some items
from your list so that your holiday can actually be festive.
-
Don't give up on your healthy eating and fitness plan during the last week. You've
made it this far (hopefully) so don't give up when your on the 10-yard line. Stick
to your 60 and 30 commitment and you'll feel refreshed after the holiday rush
has ended rather than feeling like you are ready to hibernate. If you haven't
met your weekly commitments don't throw in the towel. Regroup and try to meet
you goal during this last week.
Credit:
About the Author: Lynn Bode is a certified
personal trainer specializing in Internet-based fitness programs. She founded
Workouts For You, which provides affordable online exercise programs that are
custom designed for each individual. Visit: http://www.workoutsforyou.com
for free fitness tips and a sample workout program. Fitness professionals, learn
how to support your clients online, visit: http://www.trainerforce.com
Related
Information: NBA
Benefit Provider - Adventure
Club NBA
Resource Article - 5 Ways to Enjoy
the Holidays More! NBA
Resource Article - Top Tips
For Good Nutrition This Thanksgiving Reprint
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