Holidays and Balancing the 3 F’s: Family, Food, and Fitness
For all of our recent commentary on how the Holiday season can be a difficult time of year for anyone on a weight loss journey, it’s important to note that, like almost everyone else, it really is the most wonderful time of the year. And as difficult as it may be to navigate the season from the perspective of trying to lose weight, it is easier to follow so long as we do our best to balance the best parts of the season with the harder and more tempting ones. Family, food, and fitness. Finding a harmony between the three of these not only makes it easier to stay on course with our personal goals regarding weight, but it also helps us get the most out of the season. Let’s go over why a balanced approach is so beneficial, and how to work all three into the mix.
Family
First and foremost, the holiday season is one where we spend time with our loved ones. We recognize that each family has a different dynamic, but ultimately, share a bond of trust, support, and affection. Time spent sharing these with our loved ones is more than just a distraction from the temptation all around us. It helps us remember our “why”. While those of us who try to live a healthier lifestyle do it for the sake of our health, being healthier doesn’t only benefit us. It benefits the people we love, not only because we have more energy to be active with them, but because when we feel good about ourselves, we are good to others, and generally easier to be around. The other half of this benefit is the effect that our loved ones can have on us. By sharing in the warmth of the people closest to us, we can also reduce our stress (a danger to anyone during the Holidays, weight loss plan or not), and feel more motivated moving forward, knowing that we can count on the support of those who love us most. While on this topic, it is also important to mention the hidden “F” in here. Friends. Any friend who can be included on our list of loved ones can fill the same role or need. After all, family is what we make it.
Food
Regardless of what we celebrate, if anything, during the Holiday season, food always seems to be a part of it. Whether it is Glazed Ham and cocoa, or latkes and kugel, food is everywhere, and it is abundant. Obviously, it would be unrealistic to expect anyone to avoid these (and mean spirited too.) But in keeping with our current theme, it’s important that we balance these out, and not overdo it. This aspect of the holidays ties in especially tightly with family and friends. Whether we take part in potlucks or make everything solo for the benefit of everyone else, whatever foods are part of our annual traditions are meant to be shared and enjoyed. So, we should be mindful to share not only our tables but our hearts with the people joining us for our celebrations. And while leftovers are certainly a part of this, it is important to note that one of the main tenets of the season, regardless of our personal traditions, is goodwill towards others. So, in the spirit of sharing, those of us who knowingly make excessive amounts of food could consider donating it to those in need. Many of us have an older person in our family who has told us something along the lines of “cooking for others is an act of love.” Why not spread it around?
Fitness
Staying fit during the holidays is a challenge for anyone. So, unsurprisingly, weight loss tends to be one of the most common New Year’s Resolutions. But there is no rule saying we have to wait for the season to be over until we try and take control of our fitness plan. We can always find ways to sneak in as much activity as possible during our get togethers. Whether it is being active and moving around a bit more during our gatherings, or making more than one trip to bring our groceries in from the car (men, you know what we mean), there are many different ways to get our steps in. So be creative! On the other hand, no matter how much we value our time spent with the people we love, we all need just a few minutes to ourselves. No shame in that. After all, the topic is balance. Once everyone has gone home, or after a particularly delicious meal, take 15 or 20 minutes to just walk around the block. It helps us digest better, and we will feel a little less bloated. And with that comes the satisfaction that we didn’t let our fitness goals fall by the wayside!
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone. Medical Professionals can Help
We’ve all heard some version of the phrase “There is no substitute for experience.” And when it comes to our health, why not trust the experts? Weight loss, nutrition, wellness, and fitness falls under the category of medical science. By seeking the help of trained professionals, you not only have better resources to succeed, but the support structure you need to build better habits. The professionals at Olivera Weight Loss have over 40 years of experience in helping people reduce their weight to a healthy BMI, in a clinically proven and medically safe way, and with the means to help their patients keep it off. Patients who qualify for medical weight loss treatment with Olivera receive Phentermine, an FDA approved, clinically proven appetite suppressant. This is particularly helpful during a time of year where food and drink is all around us. Patients also have access to our Meal Plans to help keep a balanced and nutritious, and delicious diet, in a sustainable way. With our established patients having the option to continue their care with our Telehealth service, receiving the support, encouragement, and continuing education they need, we make it easier than ever to follow your plan and stay on track during the holidays!