This is your friendly reminder that Christmas only comes round once a year and it is a time for celebrating, eating and all things joyous with a little bit of spice. This is not the season to be focusing on how optimal your diet (as in what you eat, not that sad thing Weight Watchers does) is. It is certainly not a time to be focused on reducing calories and aiming for fat-loss.
Here are some healthy habits your can try instead of restricting this season:
Stay hydrated - there is going to be plenty booze, sugar and all things delicious, so make sure you get adequate hydration throughout the day.
Get enough sleep - this one seems obvious, but with all the parties and late night shenanigans sometimes sleep goes out the window. Remember to prioritise rest!
Eat plenty protein - I know, I know, I am a broken record, but increasing your protein intake will help support your physical needs, as well as your performance goals. Load up on protein first and foremost!
Go outside - I get it, it is cold, but going outside for a walk not only helps you maintain gentle movement and increase your NEAT, but it also helps to support your mental wellbeing and reduce cortisol.
Be mindful - find small pockets of time to bring your awareness to how you are feeling and remember that it is ok to ask for help, say no or simply state how you are feeling.
Christmas is absolutely not the time to be dieting, and I would invite you to think about whether or not you should ever be dieting anyway! Creating a balanced and healthy lifestyle requires you to find what feels good, is sustainable and most importantly is aligned with your values! Just incase you’re thinking of jumping on the ‘new year, new me’ bandwagon, I would invite you to think about what your intention is, why you want change and how you want to go about that.
