A healthy outside starts from the inside.

 

    Nearly everyone has the same goal of losing weight for the New Year, however, it's the holiday season and more than likely you are elbow high in a bowl of chips, candies, and holiday treats.  You are still feeling stuffed from Turkey Day but the carry-ins and parties are at a stead-fast rate with no end in site.  You are starting to realize your pants are getting slightly snug and you still have 3 weeks until the New Year.  This time of year can be extremely challenging to stay on a healthy path. Especially when your home constantly smells of freshly baked cookies and pies. The holidays come only once a year and while I have no problem indulging in some peanut butter fudge and key lime pie, remember that moderation is key. However, if you do end up eating an entire sheet cake and then feel guilty about it, forgive yourself.  It's over, offer yourself comfort, give yourself acceptance, and get back on track as soon as you can.  There is no need to beat yourself up for something that happened momentarily in the past.
    So instead of running from couch to kitchen treating your body like a waste basket, here are 20 non-food related activities that will ensure you can keep your smaller pants!

1. Go for a jog.  There is nothing greater than the smell of fresh air.
2. Read a book.
3. Write in a journal.  You could even start a weight loss journal!
4.  Volunteer for an organization.
5. Make up a workout on your own.  Share it with your friends or upload it on YouTube.
6. Go ice skating, after all, what is winter without some skates?
7. Learn how to sew, crotchet, or knit. Hello, Christmas presents for family and friends!
8. Look up DIY projects online.
9. Pick up a new hobby: photography, painting, scrap-booking. It's up to you!
10. Start writing a list of New Year resolutions.
11.  Go SHOPPING! After all, carrying all those bags is great exercise!
12. Sign up for workout classes
13. Rent movies
14. Build a fort out of pillows and blankets  (I suggest doing 13 and 14 together)
15. Take a nap
16. Make a list of things that motivate you
17. Take up an instrument
18. Take a mini-road trip
19. Wrap Christmas Presents
20. Reflect on the person you are/the person you want to be.