HOW TO STAY HEALTHY DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Friend and family get-togethers, traveling, shopping, cooking — the holiday season is often met with a mix of joy and stress — hopefully more of the former. Are you worried about sticking to your wellness plan during the upcoming weeks? No worries, we’ve got some quick tips to help you stay healthy over the holiday.

• Don't try to squeeze in more holiday than you can handle. Stick with your daily routine as much as possible and prioritize your workouts, even if they’re a bit shorter than normal.

 

• Schedule an appointment with a wellness coach (free with your membership) for help developing a realistic fitness and nutrition plan.

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• Go grocery shopping on a full stomach so you aren’t as easily tempted by delicious displays — and try filling that stomach with nutritious food! In one study, individuals who ate an apple before grocery shopping bought 25% more fruits and vegetables than those who did not!

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• Cook with healthy (or healthier) ingredients, like swapping out a cheesy instant mashed potato side dish with a cheesy mashed cauliflower dish.

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• Incorporate a family physical activity before or after dinner, like taking a walk around the neighborhood, visiting your local Y or throwing a football around in the yard.

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• Reduce stress and anxiety by participating in a class like tai chi or yoga (all Y memberships include over 150 types of group exercise classes)

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• And most importantly, think positive, don’t expect perfection, and give your loved ones the gift of a healthy you so you can spend quality time together!

And…there’s never been a better time to join the Y! Start off the New Year by joining by January 9, and pay only an $18 join fee – a savings up to $100! Learn more about memberships and get started here.