As temperatures drop and days get shorter during autumn, people tend to “fall” off track from their health and wellness goals. But you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your health because of some cold weather and the busy holiday season.
Thanksgiving is all about spending time with and giving to others, but it’s important that you give some time and care to yourself, so you don’t end the year feeling worse than you started it. Below are simple steps you can take to set yourself up for success and hold yourself accountable with your health and wellness goals this fall.*
Take advantage of in-season fruits and vegetables
While you may immediately gravitate to fall flavors like pumpkin spice and salted caramel, don’t forget all of the delicious fruits and vegetables that are ripe for cooking and eating during autumn. Spice up your meals with beets, broccoli, cabbage, eggplant, kale, squash, and dark leafy greens. They will still put you in the fall spirit without packing all of the extra sugar you might find in a pumpkin spice latte.
Boost your immune system
Along with the above mentioned fruits and vegetables, integrate plenty of immune-boosting foods into your diet to ward off illness during cold and flu season. Citrus fruits, red bell peppers, spinach and yogurt are just a few options that help keep your immunity strong. It is also important to drink plenty of water and wash your hands often to prevent illness during the fall.
Keep a schedule
When the sun sets earlier, you may be tempted to skip your healthy grocery shopping or workout class in favor of cozying up on the couch to watch a movie. Treat your health and fitness-focused activities like appointments so you don’t neglect them. Put them in your calendar and let your family and friends know your schedule so they can respect it. Remember, just because it’s dark outside doesn’t mean the day is over – the evening hours can be a great time to chip away at your health and wellness goals.
Try a new fitness routine
You may be less inclined to walk or jog outside as the weather gets colder, so take advantage of autumn to try a new workout. Check out a fitness studio that sounds appealing in your area. Pilates, barre, yoga, rowing, spinning, dance – the possibilities are endless! The best part is classes happen at scheduled times so it’s harder to push them off, and they are mostly indoors so you don’t have to worry about the weather.
Be kind to yourself
While it’s always commendable to stay on track with your goals, don’t let them consume you or deter you from enjoying the fun activities that come with autumn and the holiday season. Undoubtedly, there will be sugary desserts within arm’s reach at family gatherings, and you may not be able to fit in a workout on Sunday because the football game is on. Give yourself grace! It’s okay to surrender to a craving here and there. You can get back to your goals the next day if you “fall” off.
*Always make sure to consult with your Medi-Weightloss® provider to determine what healthy snack options are best suited for your individualized plan and specific program phase.