The Time Of Overeating

With Thanksgiving this week, it's important to be aware that this is the time of overeating. With all the delicious food it's hard to do any type of dieting during this time. But there is still a way to enjoy these foods in a healthy way and in moderation. 

Most people on Thanksgiving skip breakfast because they are "saving room" for the big meal. This seems like a smart idea but in hindsight this isn't good as you will be eating more and having too many calories. It's best to have a light breakfast before so you will eat in moderation later on. Plus, do you really want to be starving all day before you eat which probably won't be until the late afternoon? I wouldn't. Do your body a favor and have some protein and fiber early in the day.

Some people also tend to wear baggy clothing during this day so they can't tell when they are full. One trick is to wear tighter clothing to signal that you had enough to eat. I know when my clothes are snug after eating, that means it's time for me to give it a rest. This way I don't overeat. 

This holiday is meant for enjoying time with the one's you love. Instead of eating super fast take your time and mingle while you are munching on a few of your favorite foods. Be sure to limit your portion sizes. If you are still hungry later on help yourself to more. Also, eating smaller portion sizes will help you save room for dessert. You don't want to be full from overeating and not be able to enjoy your favorite treats. Take into consideration though that you should eat these desserts in moderation. 

Even though it is hard to stay on track during the holidays it is possible to maintain your weight. Just keep in mind these little tricks and you may feel much better about yourself after eating all the yummy foods!

Source: https://www.huffingtonpost.com

Focus On The Now

Last week we talked about ways to manage stress and this week we will be talking about mindful meditation! Have you ever just taken a few moments for yourself and tried to relax in your hectic day? Well, mindful meditation is a perfect way to loosen up and relieve the stress in your life. The whole point is to focus on the present moment. Try not to let your mind wander to the past or future, but if it does just bring it back to the now. 

When you want to meditate, make sure to find a peaceful place where noise will not distract you. You don't have to do this for long periods of time, just take about 10 minutes here and there to help you get relaxed. Make sure you are comfortable the whole time. It's up to you whether or not you would like to sit in a chair or on the floor or lay down. The first thing you should do is pay attention to your breathing. This will help you stay concentrated and will stop your mind from wandering. During this session different feelings may come about and it's important to notice those feelings and then bring yourself back to your breathing. 

The goal of meditation is to help you focus on the present and what is happening right in front of you instead of worrying about things that are out of your control. 

Source: https://www.webmd.com

Stress Management

Stress is among us everyday. It's something we can't avoid and it's pretty much normal for us. In this moment can you think of one thing you are stressed out about? I'm sure you can. Probably multiple things in fact. We deal with one thing and then there seems to always be something else right around the corner. Even though we can't fully get rid of all the stress we have, there are effective ways we can manage it so we are not hurting our well being. 

One thing you can do is keep a stress journal. Yes, this may seem silly and you are probably thinking I don't have time for this but if it could help why not give it a shot. Whenever you feel as if you are stressed write down the reason for it. After awhile, you will notice patterns and figure out what the main issue is. Now if you don't want to write in a journal, you can just make quick notes in your phone and anywhere else so you can refer back to it later on.

When you are stressed what do you do? Smoke, drink, withdrawal from society, sleep too much, or procrastinate? I know I usually procrastinate because I want to avoid facing the problem. Most everyone takes on these unhealthy habits. Instead, find activities that will keep you calm and increase your emotional and physical health. One huge stress reliever is getting exercise. It will make you feel better and could even act as a distraction. 

Also, when you are stressed one of the best things you can do is connect with others. I know when I am feeling stressed I enjoy spending time with friends. It's a way to get your mind off things and laugh with people around you. You can also talk to friends about what's going on and they can be there to listen or give you advice. 

With everything going on in your life make sure to take time for yourself and have some fun!

Source: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-management.htm