12 tips to beat the festive bulge

Along with the excitement and busyness of this time of year there’s a potential danger ahead!

In fact it might already be ‘weighing’ you down…

Self sabotage.

Unfortunately those healthier choices you’ve been enjoying and worked hard at, may start to go by the wayside (or is that weighside), leaving you bereft and a few too many kilo’s heavier.

That’s not how you want to start a New Year!

So how in the world do you stay on track while STILL enjoying this special time of year?

… By feeling good.

It’s not about denial or deprivation. No way. It IS about how you FEEL about your choices, and, feeling good within yourself.

You might be thinking, ‘hmmm… easier said than done!’

It’s true but my 12 simple tactics make it easily said and done.
I Promise!

1. Rather than do … be.

Rather than busily or distractedly eating and drinking try being more in the moment e.g. sipping your drink slowly, chewing mindfully – taste and think about it – challenge yourself to being fully engaged in conversation at the same time.

Being more present and aware means we absorb our food better, feel full quicker and consequently eat less. And most importantly have far more engaging interactions with friends and family - win, win, win.

2. Stay hydrated + Wedge.

If you’re having a drink, remember to wedge in a glass of water in between drinks and remember how good you’re going to feel tomorrow. Stay well hydrated with good quality water - always.

3. Fuel up.

When you’re going out take time to fuel up with good wholesome food throughout the day or prior to going out. You’ll be less hungry and won’t feel the need to fill up on foods you know don’t work for you. And you’re going to feel good the next day. For lots of quick snacks and great ideas visit my website https://www.katebarnes.com.au

4. Stock the pantry.

You’ll be on the go, shopping for holidays and festivities, finishing up work commitments and going out. Keep the pantry, fridge and freezer stocked with essentials so you can create healthy food choices quickly and easily.

5. Commit to activities that make you feel good first thing in the morning.

When we do this we immediately put our mind in the right space and feel more in control, making good choices easier.

For example;

• Moving.
• Meditating.
• Reading or listening to something inspirational.
• Waking up early.

Other choices that will lift our vibe and strengthen our mind;

6. Resting or napping.

7. Getting quality sleep.

8. Spending time outside and in the sunshine.

9. Guarding time.

Time is our most valuable asset especially at this time of year, question choices. Do we really need to attend that event? or go shopping at that time? clean those windows now? Question your choices, say ‘no thank you’ when you can, we understand.

10. Supplementing.

If you feel your body is going to need a vitality boost there are a couple of supplements that can help manage stress and deplete when we’re busy e.g. a good quality magnesium, b vitamins, vitamin c or msm (natural sulphur). Always check with your health practitioner before supplementing.

Using essential oils such as frankincense, vetiver and serenity can also be great for getting us out of our busy minds and into our bodies.

11. Stressing less.

Then if sticking to ‘the plan’ is stressing you then please try not to. It’s so much more important to thoroughly enjoy the choices you make and the special time you have catching up with family and friends.

No guilt or regret – those feelings are worse than that bowl of christmas pud or that extra glass of champers!

12. Breathing.

When we’re busy it’s easy not to. However it’s possibly the best and quickest hack to feeling good. Remember to breathe - deeply.

It’s easy to neglect these fundamental ‘feel good’ choices when there’s lots on, yet it’s actually the most important time to commit to them.

These simple choices will position your mind in a way that makes it easier to cope with stressors and/or self sabotage when they come to play and in many ways are inevitable at this time of year.

Be prepared and I hope you … feel good!

What one, simple choice that you know is right for you, can you commit to? The one thing that’s non negotiable because it makes you feel good and you’re going to enter the New Year feeling healthy, happy and light - mind and body!