Stop winter weight gain with these 6 tips below.
Do you have less energy when it’s colder and darker?
Do you have cravings for more breads and sweets?
When it gets colder and darker it creates stress on our bodies. We also seem to add more to our “plates” once September hits. Then the overeating starts with the left over Halloween candy, Thanksgiving, holiday parties, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years, and after the holiday parties.
Here are 6 tips to help you from gaining weight and to keep your energy from crashing this winter.
1. Wear layers to keep your thyroid and core warm. Scarfs, vest, hats, and smart wool socks are some of my favorites. Need stylish tips?
2. Eat and drink warm balanced foods (non-alcholic drinks that is). Balanced means a carbohydrate, protein and fat. Looking for new recipes? Want a nutrition DVD course you can do at home?
3. Say NO! Winter is not the time to take on more. When you say NO to someone else you are saying YES to yourself.
4. Get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep a night so you aren’t craving carbs throughout the day for energy. Not to mention your metabolism works much better when you get enough sleep.
5. Be careful on what type of exercise you do. If you had a stressful day and your energy is low, the best thing for you is a walk, yoga class, or strength class where you are lifting slowly, controlled and focusing on your breathing. High intensity workouts create stress on the body and when you’re already stressed it just makes it worse. More cortisol is released which creates weight gain in the belly.
6. Watch what you put in your mouth. If you are at a party use the 3 bite rule – you only get 3 bites of a dessert so pick wisely, it should be worth it! And, limit yourself to ONE (you heard me, ONE) drink.
Which one of the above tips is the hardest for you to do? Eat That Frog! (a book by Brian Tracy) would say, tackle the hardest one first! It’s a great and quick read if you haven’t read it. Get an accountability partner. Tell them what you’re doing and why, have them check in on you weekly to see how it’s going, what’s getting in the way, and to support you.
Here’s to more energy, feeling better, and looser pants this winter.
Shine Brightly,
Ali
P.S. If you’ve been struggling lately here’s some insights on how struggles help us grow.
