4 Tips For Not Regretting Your 4th of July
The 4th of July is all about family, friends, and food. If you are feeling anxious about the holiday I think you'll find these tips helpful as you can still have fun without sacrificing your healthy habits or beach body.
1. Squeeze In Some Exercise. One of the reasons why I love having my own studio is that it's open whenever I want. Since I know that my clients have the day off they can come in for an extra intense workout! As tough as it is, don’t neglect your exercise program over the holidays. Get out and do plenty of walking if you simply can’t adhere to your normal routine. Try exercising first thing in the morning, since often as the day progresses it becomes harder to squeeze it in. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. When shopping, park far from the store entrances and walk an extra two laps around the mall when finished. If you belong to a fitness centre try and new cardio machine or step up the intensity with your current program.
2. Think before you drink - Account for Liquid Calories
There is a place for alcohol in a healthy lifestyle, but making smart choices can be the difference between losing or gaining weight (not to mention your self-control). One sugary margarita can have 600-800 calories. That means 3 margaritas is more food than you should be consuming in an entire day. Is that really worth it? Drink plenty of water and remember to pace yourself. In addition to unwanted calories, alcohol is very acidic and rremember, we want to keep our pH at the ideal 7.2. Wine contains a pH of only 3, very very acidic, while vodka is a "neutral spirit" and has a pH in the 6.0-7.0 range.
3. Think About Your Thinking One of the biggest challenges over the holidays is that we can easily talk ourselves into either under- or over-indulging. Our brain is wired to think about things as good or bad, and getting into a mindset of moderation is tough for many of us to do. Healthy holiday eating is absolutely about choosing to celebrate and enjoy your favourites. It is not necessary to give up your family traditions and skip out on goodies at holiday parties. Be aware when you have slipped into “all or none” thinking. All is not lost if you decide to indulge. If you get off track and overdo it one day, get back on track the next day. Also try to notice when you are eating in a way that really doesn’t make you feel comfortable. Ask yourself if you are eating because you are stressed, lonely or bored, rather than truly hungry.
4. Step Away from the Food and Into the Sun Safely
It's fun to be able to rock your favorite summer outfits with a sun kissed look. However, I do not like to subject my skin to the sun - nor do I have time to sunbathe. In fact, my dog uses my patio more than I do! There are some great organic self tanners on the market that are made from banana peels and other raw ingredients. Sunscreens have also come along way! My favorite one is from Coola. It has an SPF of 45, is certified organic and gives you 80 minutes of sweat and water resistance. It's also infused with organic Evening Primrose and Linseed Oils, rich in Omega-3 and 6 Fatty Acids to nourish and balance hydration. Organic Arnica Extract reduces inflammation, while organic Coconut Oil moisturizes parched skin and delivers the free radical fighting antioxidant Vitamin E.
What will you do to make your 4th healthier this year?
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Yvonne is the owner of Essence of Health located in Laguna Beach. She graduated from the University of Alberta with her degree in Nutrition and Food Science. Originally from Calgary, this Canadian brings with her over 23 years in the fitness industry working in both corporate and private arenas. She is very passionate about health and loves sharing that passion with everyone around her. Yvonne's complimentary background in fitness AND nutrition enables her to bring the latest phenomenon's in the industry to her clients, making Essence of Health the most unique studio in Laguna. Exercise and nutrition is a partnership and by addressing both you get the best results; KNOWLEDGE + ACTION = RESULTS. Yvonne helps you transform your mindset, body, and life!
