New Year’s Resolutions and Healthy Habits

Around this time of year, things begin to wrap up. Soon enough, the New Year will bring a fresh start for all. Because the New Year isn’t quite here yet, it’s easy to let our guards down, especially with the hustle and bustle as we prepare to celebrate the few final holidays that are left for the year. While there is temporary satisfaction in letting all good habits go, in order to enjoy unlimited fudge, eggnog, and holiday cocktails, the damage could take a while to recover from. Perhaps by practicing moderation, maintaining at least some light exercise if that’s all that fits, and slowly integrating good habits, it will be a little easier to transition into the New Year with health in mind.

Preparation and prevention is key when it comes to a healthy lifestyle. During the holidays, sweets are a plenty and extra time is hard to come by. Many times routines fly out the window for a few months. This can create extra stress; no fun, especially at such a joyous time of year. Enjoy some ideas on how to transition out of 2017 and into 2018 with ease.

• Moving and Grooving: While the gym may not be reasonable with the ever-growing to-do list, remember that every step counts. If you can’t make your 5pm Zumba class, know that squats and a few push-ups only take a few minutes but offer an impact. Also, double up. Maybe you can fold laundry while doing leg-lifts. Challenge yourself to fit in movement at every opportunity. Too many meetings and too little time? Perhaps you could propose a walking meeting.
• Every Bite Tastes the Same: Moderation is not always fun, but it does allow you to have a little of everything! Remembering not to eat all twelve cookies is important. In fact, challenge yourself to go halfsies. Split the cookie in half, and know that each and every bite will taste the same. Also, think of ideas to slim down the things you like. If you add Perrier mineral water to your favorite wine, you have yourself a low calorie spritzer that will last twice as long! You can even add in some lime, mint or fruit for flavor and color.
• Portion Control: At many holiday parties, it is easy to get filled up on appetizers before the main course comes around. Being prepared ahead is vital. Perhaps have a protein filled snack just before the party so that you aren’t tempted to go crazy on the hors d’oeuvres. This way you can enjoy a well-planned dinner without feeling too full. Your waistline will thank you later.
• Don’t Forget the Vegetables: If you are hosting, make sure to integrate both raw and roasted vegetables into your party. A colorful, abundant veggie tray with a few healthy dips is a great way to go light without compromising on taste. Hummus, Greek yogurt dips, and guacamole are all great alongside vegetables. If you cut up the veggies yourself just before the party, not only will your tray be fresher, but also much more cost efficient. Grilled or broiled vegetables with a little oil, salt, and pepper can pretty much pair with any style you are going for. It should help even out some of the heavier side dishes, so provide plenty! Lastly, don’t forget about substitutions. Cauliflower can disguise itself well as potatoes or rice. Give it a go.
• Pay Attention to Daily Recommended Amounts: It’s quite shocking what we consume compared to how much we should consume. Understanding how much protein, carbohydrates, and fat we should take in is a good start, but sugar is very important too. If you have the time, pay attention to the vitamins and minerals that your body needs as well. Aligning your intake with what it should be will do you good!
• Take Time for You: Because the end of the year is such a busy time, it’s easy to let a few things go, especially our own needs. Remembering to slow down and do what we love the most will help ward off stress. Perhaps a good bubble bath with a great book would be nice? It’s worth the hour. Take time for you.

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, the best ones are the ones that stick. When thinking of what your goals will be, ensure they are reasonable and attainable. Think “lifestyle” and don’t take on too much. That way you can avoid burnout, and let health come organically and slowly, as it should. Happy New Year!

Jessie Marchese is a native San Diegan with love for health, wellness and good eats. See her lifestyle blog here: www.haveyourcakeandeat.com. She can be reached at jessieemily@gmail.com.