(ARA) – Who says you have to miss out on all the holiday season has to offer to stay healthy? The key to maintaining good health is not depriving yourself of the season’s delights, but rather finding a reasonable balance of your mental, emotional and physical well-being. Follow these few steps and enjoy a fulfilling holiday season.
Choose wisely.
A multitude of party invites, an array of chocolate-covered offerings and little time to hit the gym in between can take a toll. Choose wisely, and enjoy your time at the events you are able to attend.
Browse the buffet line for healthy options, such as veggies or fruit, shrimp cocktail or chicken skewers. You don’t have to forsake dessert – instead, share a nibble with someone else.
If you’re worried about will power, it’s a good idea to eat 1.5 ounces of protein before an event, such as four whole grain crackers with 1 ounce of string cheese or 1 ounce of deli turkey, or a cup of black bean soup.
Don’t deny yourself.
Food is connected to family, culture, tradition and celebration, and should be a source of enjoyment.
“I teach my students to think about small meals during the day that center around fiber and flavor,” says Debbie Swanson, registered dietician and nutrition and healthy cooking tips instructor at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Colorado. Swanson says that if it doesn’t taste good, people tend to overeat.
Another golden rule is to avoid creating a “can’t have” list when it comes to tempting foods, Swanson says, as it only makes you want them more. She suggests eating smaller portions instead, such as a bite of pie instead of the whole piece.
“My friend makes the best apple pie. I always have two bites,” Swanson says.
Work it off.
The best practice is to engage in a continuous exercise routine. If weather is an obstacle where you live, or if you know you won’t have time to work out that day, park further away from the office or take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Research shows that individuals typically gain one to three pounds during the holidays. “The problem is that we don’t lose the weight,” Swanson says. Rather than adding weight that you have to work off later, maintain a workout regimen, or find other ways to burn the calories throughout the busy day.
Make “me” time.
According to Jim Wasner, dean for the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University Schaumburg, research over the past two decades has begun to demonstrate the strong connection between mental health and the strength of immune systems, which affects overall physical well-being.
Wasner says the strength and resilience of everyone’s overall immune system, feeling depressed or overly anxious, often correlates with poorer physical health and vulnerability to illnesses.
“Relax and schedule fun times just for yourself,” he says.” Go easy on the alcohol and sugar. Catch up on your sleep.”
Overall, balance and relaxation play a big role in maintaining your health during the holiday season. So just remember, the holidays should be enjoyed, celebrated and indulged – within reason.
To learn more about Argosy University, visit www.argosy.edu. To learn more about The Art Institutes schools visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.
