Leaves are falling, candles burning, and PSL season is in full swing. Everywhere you look there is evidence of the dreaded holiday season creeping in. So what does that mean for your body?
You shouldn’t have anything but excitement for this season, because you can look better than ever by following these guidelines as the weather gets colder.
1. No licking the spoon!
We all have the guilty pleasure of licking the spoon or stealing some cookie dough whenever you are baking those favorite holiday treats. This used to be the best part.. until your metabolism wised up. Baked goods are a double edged sword, being addictive as well as not so good for the body, but how do you resist? Turn baking into a labor of love! Instead of baking for yourself, specifically make them for someone else. This is great because now you can’t (or at least really shouldn’t) lick the spoon, and you can’t over eat them because they aren’t in your own home. Everyone likes to be thought of, and if you give them to the right person they may even share!
2. Take a Walk.
Everyone seriously underestimates walking. Taking a walk everyday will not only improve your overall health, but will also improve your state of mind. Getting some uninterrupted fresh air is great for clearing your head, and this will let you focus on the things you need to get done. Other benefits include lower blood pressure, improved bone and joint health, and potential weight loss if you make it a part of your daily routine and pair it with a healthy diet! Just don’t forget your jacket.
3. Slimming Soups
Even though the air might me starting to chill lets be real, your appetite probably isn’t. Colder weather naturally makes us want to eat more in order to raise our body temperature. But this doesn’t have to mean the end of your summer body! While there are plenty of year round healthy options, the coming of fall is a perfect reason to start experimenting with soups! The great part about soup is how easy it is to throw a some veggies and your favorite protein into a crockpot with some broth (preferably low sodium) and then leaving it there! The only thing you have to do is master your day, and then come home to a simmering master piece that took you seconds to prepare. Just make sure not to bog it down with heavy amounts of sodium or fattening ingredients and you’re sure to stay lean and lovely.
4. Just Say NO.
One of the biggest factors in fall weight is the obstacle of turning down that extra cookie. It seems that once the temperature drops below seventy degrees, every grandparent breaks into a spontaneous cooking spree that results in endless pressure on you to eat. While it may seem rude, and extremely hard, you sometimes need to just kindly say “No, thank you.” A very bad habit that plagues most people is accepting when you are full. Its always a good idea to remind yourself that it is JUST food, and you can certainly live without that one last piece.
5. Fall Things in Moderation
Realistically, the holidays are for family memories and fun. Baking, candy making, and big dinners are all a part of many family traditions and that is okay. As long as you know what you’re eating, and how it affects you then you can properly plan and deal with any weight you may gain. It is important to always remember that a few extra pounds can always be lost, and may not always be a terrible thing. If you are healthy, and confident then the holidays are no problem. Just be sure to enjoy the time and stay focused on being the amazing, healthy, and happy woman you are.
These steps may seem obvious, but we all know that common sense is one of the first things to go when we are criticizing ourselves. Next time you feel a little negative just try to remember how much you love yourself, the season, and your health. You know what you need to do to or wok on to stay healthy, and being honest with yourself is a very important part of that. Don’t let your concern about figure get in the way of enjoying this fall, but also try to keep these steps in mind if you find yourself struggling with a moment of insecurity.
Happy Fall Ladies!