Stay happy & healthy during the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time to celebrate with friends and family. It’s also a time where too many people break from their routines. Parties, food, alcohol, stress, and lack of sleep inundate everyone during the holidays. Unfortunately, if you neglect your body during these six weeks it may negatively impact your health. People should anticipate the holiday distractions and stress then develop a well-designed plan to overcome them.

Have a snack or bring a healthy food

Have a healthy snack before heading out to a party to avoid indulging in unhealthy foods due to hunger. You can also offer to bring something healthy to the party. This way you know first hand what ingredients are used. People are becoming more health conscious and might enjoy this new dish.

Think before you drink

Most holiday drinks are filled with empty calories. Alcohol can also interfere with proper nutrition, sleep and hydration levels. Inhibition will be lowered by alcohol and the percentage of over eating will increase. Just like food, try to limit how many drinks you have at a party.

Get some sleep

Sleep is essential for adults. Sleep is just as important as nutrition and exercise when it comes to improving your health. Forming proper sleep and rest habits are important to optimize recovery of your body. You need at least 8 hours of sleep to rebuild muscles you broke down during the day. Not enough sleep can leave you feeling tired and irritable.

Exercise to relieve stress

Feeling stressed, depressed or anxious during the holiday season? Go hit the gym. Exercise will improve mood and sleep quality while reducing any depression or anxiety during the holidays. Try to exercise in the early morning. This way you get in your workout and have plenty of time for work, family and holiday shopping.

The Buddy System

Looking to stay energetic and motivated during the holiday season? Look for a workout partner that is reliable, goal oriented and has a similar schedule. Hold each other accountable by sending a motivational text or email. You’ll be less likely to miss your workout because you won’t want to disappoint your partner.

Celebrate with family and friends

It’s the holiday season of course you can have fun celebrating with friends and family. Break the rules once in a while! Just understand what once in a while is; it is not a daily occurrence. Let yourself splurge 1-4 times in a month. If you do this, you can feel good enjoying the foods you look forward to every year.

Prepare to Succeed

Pete Tormey

Athletic Performance Training, Inc., utilizes a comprehensive training philosophy, which follows a movement-based approach to improving athletic development. We specialize in athletic training, youth training, adult fitness, semi private training, and personal training. At APT you will prepare to succeed. To learn more about Athletic Performance Training contact Pete at 781-883-5564 or www.aptrainingsystems.com