Stay Fit During the Holidays

Why work out during the Christmas season as an excuse to put it off until the New Year? Instead, eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow you shall diet, WRONG!

Although most of us see the Christmas season as an excuse to put exercise and proper eating on hold, we end up feeling lousy by the time the New Year comes. Here are a few pointers on how to look and stay healthy, even when late night partying and long shopping hours get in the way.

STAND TALL AND LOOK SMART!
At a party or while window-shopping, standing up straight makes you look healthier, more attractive and intelligent, no matter how much you weight. Just imagine yourself being pulled up by a string attached to your chest.

SHORT CUT OF FLAT TUMMY
For those who go from school straight to a party, there’s no time to work out that tummy. Instead, contract (hold for a count of five) and release your stomach muscles at every chance (in your car, at the table).

GET DOWN AND BOOGIE!
Some parties invite guests to kick up their heels and dance, so grab this chance. Almost every form of dancing races the heart rate enough to call it an aerobic activity. Plus, the music makes workout a lot more effortless and doubly fun!

NO MORE DIGESTIVE DILEMMAS
During the holidays, many people suffer from heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation. Follow these pointers to ease these tummy troubles:

Eat only when you’re hungry and make your meals small and regular.

Chew your food well.

Avoid high-fiber breakfast, like whole wheat toast or cornflakes and a banana.

BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPS
The season demands stamina to see you from morning to late at night, so prevent fluctuating energy levels by eating a full breakfast. Also, lessen intake of coffee and soft drinks. The caffeine only gives you a sudden jolt and then brings your energy level back down.

HOLD YOUR BREATH!
Too much shopping, partying and eating often results in sleeplessness. To get some much-needed rest, try out the following breathing techniques: Inhale deeply, ?ling your lung as much as you can, then exhale slowly. Repeat this three times. On the third reputation, hold your breath for as long as you can before releasing.

You don’t have to follow each of these tips word for word, but try and make them work for you. After all, you owe it to your body to have a happy, healthy Christmas. As the best gift you can give yourself. Well, good luck and good health! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! (Adapted)