There’s a good reason the New Year is full of healthy eating and fitness resolutions. Starting with Halloween- with that candy we’re supposed to give to kids- we begin a downward spiral to New Year’s Eve that is fueled by full calendars, PCS moves and tasty temptations in every direction. Once you give in to one temptation, it’s easier to give in to the next, then the next, then the next. Yes, I’m thinking about those dark chocolate covered minty marshmallows that I went ahead and bought at Trader Joe’s last weekend.
I had my first fitness follow-up at the wellness center the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. I was hoping that starting my sessions with them in early November would keep me on track through the holidays. After all, the wellness center services that are available to us in our military communities are quite generous. But, I hadn’t kept up with my food journaling or my six hours of running a week like I had agreed to do. I considered canceling my appointment rather than face the counselor after receiving Bod Pod results showing a setback. In the end, I decided that for better or for worse, I must move forward, and canceling the appointment would be the coward’s way out and wouldn’t serve me well in the end.
Here’s how I’m moving forward. Maybe these tips can help you as you navigate your way through the next several weeks.
Observe how you’re feeling without judgement. Sit quietly in an easy cross-legged position with your eyes closed and your palms resting on your knees. Breathe easily and take inventory of how you’re feeling. Are you tired? Bloated? Stressed? Don’t judge. Just observe. Let your inner voice be kind. If your friends talked to you the way you talk to yourself, would you still be friends?
Address the problem. If you’re tired, get to bed seven to eight hours before you need to wake up. If you’re bloated and full, avoid sugar, white grains, and large portions at least while you’re at home, leaving the indulgences for when you’re out. If you’re stressed, maybe choose to say no to an invitation or two.
Don’t give up. Just because you missed a workout or two doesn’t mean you need to throw in the towel and skip all of your workouts between now and January. Take heart! Every little bit matters and you’ll feel better moving into the New Year.
Are you on or off track with your goals this holiday season? If you’re on track, what is your secret? If you’re off track, what is the biggest contributor to your trouble?
