Wow as I sit here and write this a few things come to mind
first that were the longest winter and spring ever and I always feel this week
Memorial Day weekend means many things. First
summer is here!! This is the time of the
year to light the grill, go camping, invite friends over, kick back, have time
off of work, go boating, basically anything that involves being outside. Another thing happens we realize either those
choices we made all winter and spring are now paying off as we were less
clothes or we are wishing we started sooner.
Regardless of where you’re at, it’s your fitness journey and remembers you’re
the one that controls it. So let’s back
up to 2013 Memorial Day weekend I for sure was not wanting to wear shorts or a
tank top I had just joined an online challenge group May 5th and was
on week 3 I was losing weight feeling good but had a ways to go. I remember standing
in my kitchen with a half-gallon of ice eating from the container (because I
was only going to have a bit) and found myself eating way more than a bit. In that moment I made a choice was I going to
let food rule the way I live my life or was I going to take control back. Everyone has that food that more than likely brings
back happy memories but it’s not the food that we crave it’s that feeling we had
that connects the two together. From that day on I pretty much went all summer
long without having ice cream because I knew I would want more. Now I will have it here and there but it does
not have that power over me. I truly believe
food can control you way more then you believe I read the book made to crave
this last January and so many light bulbs went off I strong suggest it if your
someone that struggles with balance.
So with that being said balance is everything and I totally
agree with letting loose and enjoying the down time but I would keep in mind
the 80/20 rule. Meaning 80% of Memorial
Day you’re on track you get your workout in and you take your water bottle everywhere. And 20% of the day you might enjoy a glass of
wine or steak on the grill. If you
struggle with a certain food I would not even venture out to eat that on a
holiday because you will end up with it taking up more than 20% of your day. And with that down time instead of focusing
on standing around the “food table” at whatever gathering you attend more
importantly you focus on the people in your life and take a moment to enjoy
their company.
So let’s break that down into 7 points
Healthy food options on hand
– keep easy to grab portable snacks on hand so you always
have something to pull out of the fridge when you walk in the door. Good
options include: raw veggies and hummus, nuts, fresh fruit, and peanut butter
and an apple. Offer to bring the side
dish to the gathering your will be attending.
Veggies & Lean Proteins
– these will fill you up on fewer calories and will keep
your blood sugar steady so you don’t have a mood & energy crash later. Head to your local meat shop and buy a great
cut of meat that is mean for the grill.
Drink lots of water like it’s your job
– Even slight dehydration can make us feel tired and cranky,
along with giving you a headache, and making you feel hungry. Many people eat
when they are actually thirsty. I
always say aim to drink half your body weight in oz. And if you’re planning on using the 80 20
rule extra water to flush your system.
Sugar plan ahead
– sugar is everywhere these days… you might think that “healthy” quick snack you
found at your grocery store is good for you turn it around and read the label
how much sugar is in that. Just this
past week I told the kids they could pick something extra out at the store and
I was happy to find they wanted raspberries and ginger snap cookies, everything
in moderation.
Plan ahead
– make a list and check it twice. Planning ahead sets you up
for success, reduces stress, and makes sure you’re not scrambling at the last
minute. List out the parties you will attend and what healthy options you will
be bringing along and sharing.
Remember your company
– For me, the
holidays are about connecting with family, friends, and loved ones. When I keep
that in mind, it is easier to let go of stress, stress brings on added unwanted
calories. Ask your husband to help
around the house so that everyone can enjoy the down time together.
Remember this is a journey
-It’s your story and you hold the pen to write what the outcome
is, you cannot control other around you but you can choose your reaction. So remember why you started and why you’re doing
this and stay focused on the bigger picture holidays come and go but progress
is always moving forward or backwards never staying in one spot.
Happy Memorial Day!!
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