It’s that time of year again where the saying “everything in moderation” goes out the tinsel-covered window. We’re bombarded with canapes, glasses of champagne and an indulgent Christmas event every damn day. So how can you stay healthy and fit and still enjoy the most festive time of the year? We asked the experts.
Eat before you attend events
“Have a big glass of water before you arrive and, if possible, a healthy meal. The issues come when you’re drinking on an empty stomach and feel like you have to eat your bodyweight in canapés because you haven’t had dinner.” – Sam Wood, personal trainer and founder of 28 By Sam Wood.
Schedule exercise in your diary
“I honestly see exercise as just another thing I want to, and need to, get done… just like brushing my teeth. I feel weird when I haven’t done it. A great way to fit it in is writing it down in your diary. Just like any other appointment – you can’t cancel once it’s in there!” – Steph Claire Smith, model and co-founder of health program, Keep It Cleaner
Don’t miss out – just alternate
“Avoid the deep fried food choices and go for the fresh options. As for the drinks, these can add up over the month leading up to Christmas so try to alternate your champagnes with soda water. Alternatively, if it’s a mid-week work function then drive so you have an excuse not to drink and save your champagnes for the weekend.” – Peta Carige, Sports Dietitian at Functional Food Solutions
Listen: Dual sportswoman Ellyse Perry shares her day on a plate. (Post continues…)
Keep mentally healthy
“I embrace positive self-help podcasts, mindfulness and meditation. I love the three-minute breathing space our TiffXO psychologist Cass Dunn taught me. STOP everything you are doing, find a quiet space, sit and relax and just breathe. Focusing on your breath just for a minute and letting go of all the thoughts that pop into your head helps you to refocus and re-centre. When I just breathe for three minutes, I find I feel less overwhelmed and stressed. Something as simple as breathing can redirect your entire day.” – Tiffiny Hall, personal trainer, author and founder of Tiffxo.