Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Holiday Indulgences

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Go For It!
Are you one of those millions of people that will spend much of their Holiday Season seeing friends (maybe only this time of year), attending parties and festivities?  As a Fitness Professional, I hear many people talk about gaining weight during this time of year. I am going to suggest to you to indulge in these many social activities and go with it!  You are better off enjoying these extra curricular activities free from stress and worry, then beating yourself up about it within your own mind.   The stress you put in your own mind WILL cause you go gain weight.  Attend those events you choose to.  You have the choice to say yes and the choice to say no.  This time of year, many people tend of over commit themselves. 


A Happy Heart and Mind
Indulging your body, mind, heart and spirit in these social activities (as long as they are stimulating to you and not adding more stress in your world) is a way to fulfill our needs and desires.  Haven't you ever felt uplifted just spending time with someone you love? Or  had a stimulating or intriguing conversation with someone you don't know.  These activities or new sensations and experiences (as well as learning new things)  stimulates the brain to form neural pathways.  This helps to keep us on our toes, be refreshed and open for new ideas to filter in.


A Happy Body
My suggestion is to make good use of your time, look ahead a few days and find ways to get some exercise.  Make the most out of your workouts and change it up.  Circuit training is  great way to get cardio and strength training in one session.  For example, warm up for 10 min., then do a 'segment' of strength training with weights, bands, etc. for about 5-8 min.  Then, add your high intensity cardio - jump rope, jumping jacks, uphill walking etc. for about 2-5min.  Repeat with new strength training exercises each segment 3-4 times depending upon your timeframe.  If you are tight on time this month, intensify your exercises sessions when you do work out.  If you run, run faster or intervals (especially if you have 30 min. instead of 45 min.).  If you are traveling, find a place to take a class and if you have guests in from out of town, incorporate some exercise with them.  If you really are unable to find any time to exercise, please take a few minutes to close your eyes, breath deep and visualize yourself exercising.  Your cells don't necessarily know the difference between your mind visualizing that you are performing the exercises and your body actually doing it!  And imagine the impact when you do both together!


A Happy Belly
 I would be remiss if I didn't mention the all the food and drinks at the parties.  Again, you have the choice to say yes to all the unhealthy food and the choice to say no.  See how you feel the following day and YOU decide how important or tasteful it is to you or your digestive system.  Pick and choose your indulgences, chew your food slowly and appreciate each flavor you decide to enjoy.  Small portions and avoid eating just because the food is there. Did I mention portion control!  Consider bringing a healthy dish and see me if you need ideas!  Hydrate and drink water. If you consume adult libations throughout the month of December, a few herbs you may consider for the holiday season may be milk thistle, turmeric and dandelion root.  


Enjoy the holiday season and remember to stimulate your mind and body by experiencing something new this month and season!







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