With all of the family feasts, festive parties and cookie swaps that happen during the holidays, it's not surprising to find you've gained a little weight when all the merry-making dies down. But don't fret, with a bit of dedication and some simple changes to your daily routine you can easily shed those holiday pounds.
Get rid of the holiday goodies
We all stock up on extra sweets and goodies over the holidays for guests. But now it's time to get rid of these treats so they do not tempt you! If you don't want to throw them out, donate them, or take them to work to share. How about a nice New Year's gift basket of sweets for your children's teachers?
Map out your meals
Spend a few minutes each morning planning out your meals and snacks for the day. The key is to prepare for when hunger strikes. This way, you won't default for the chips, but will grab the crudités instead.
Turn the music up
When you're ready to clean up the holiday mess, turn on the music and move your body! Add a few dance steps to your kitchen sweep, or while vacuuming the carpets. When cleaning the bathroom, alternate among the bath/shower, sink and toilet, to make it more interesting - and to keep yourself moving!
Finish with fresh fruit
Instead of the sweetness of chocolate, or other calorie-laden desserts, finish off your meal with fresh fruit. It's just as sweet, and guaranteed to satisfy!
Play outdoors
Don't let the cold weather steer you away from outdoor activity. Bundle up in some warm clothing and make the most of the season. Grab your kids and go skating. Try your hand at skiing or snowboarding. Make a snowman, or snow fort with your family. Soon enough you'll be running around like a kid, having a great time!
Skip the wine when you dine
Instead of having a glass wine with dinner, skip the wine and opt for mineral water with a splash of cranberry juice or grape juice for some sweetness. If you really enjoy a glass of wine in the evening, trying having one every second night, or treating yourself once or twice a week.
Work your water
Encourage yourself to drink your 6-8 glasses of water a day by buying yourself a refillable water bottle and keep it filled while working or on the go. In no time, this will become second nature, and you'll feel fuller more often.
Fill up on fibre
Try adding more fibre-rich foods to your diet. Filling up on whole grains and leafy vegetables is a great way to add more fibre to your diet, and foods full of fibre tend to have fewer calories. This is another easy way to get your recommended 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
Join the gym
Take a walk through your local gym and see if what they have interests you. You may like the classes they are offering, or you may feel inspired by all those working out around you. Remember, if you decide to join a gym, you can start off slowly and work your way up!
Interested in joining Weight Watchers? Sign up today!