Staying on Track {Giveaway}
*******This giveaway has already ended. Stay tuned for more!
Hey everyone! How was your day?
I was blown away by all of your awesome comments and sweet compliments on the Zumba videos. Even though it’s a little more challenging than it usually is, I still love teaching so.so much. Dancing makes me happy and is one of the few things that feels good right now, so I’m sticking with it as long as I can. Maybe I can plan some “let’s take a Zumba class” meet-ups when I get back into the traveling thing 🙂
Last night, while nana, madre and I were shopping, I couldn’t believe that all of the Christmas decor was already up. It’s like retail skips right past Halloween into Christmas, which I love, but it just seems so early this year. Just another excuse to get the tree up before Thanksgiving, eh?
[Our 2009 tree]
Holidays are definitely already on the brain for many people, and it was the topic for this morning’s conference call.
After I posted this morning’s post, I hopped on a video conference with the Shape Magazine Senior Associate Lifestyle Editor. The funny thing is that I woke up a little earlier so I could brush my hair and look semi-human, but we could just see and hear her, no one else could see us.
The funny thing is that if I would have zombie-d it, it would have been set up where everyone else could see me. Isn’t that how it always works out?
Anyway,
the video chat was fantastic. The speaker was Bahar Takhtehchian, and she discussed her favorite tips for staying on track during the holidays. She was a joy to listen to, but I couldn’t help but think “I’ve heard all of these tips before. I hope she shares a secret awesome trick I can share with my readers.” But the truth is, the methods to staying on track during the holidays are really all things we’ve heard before. Just like healthy living in general: the idea behind it is simple, but the execution is where it can get tricky.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the things she discussed, along with my own tips in brackets:
-You can still enjoy the holidays while maintaining your fitness and health accomplishments- treats are ok! [I am a huge believer in treating yourself! The only time we can run into challenges is when we tend to celebrate holidays over and over and over again. If it’s Thanksgiving, live it up- but after that holiday, get back into the usual swing of things]
-Make important choices during the day. Enjoy a satisfying breakfast with a combo of whole grains and protein- choose foods that will fill you up and keep snacking at bay. As far as lunch goes, choose something like salad, broth-based soups, salad, whole-grain sandwich (hummus or avocado instead of mayo), and keep lunch lighter since those who are at work are unable to nap after lunch and digest a large amount of food. [I also like to enjoy something healthy before going out to a party, such as some soup or a large salad. This way, I know that I’ve had some veggies and nutrients before the party, and don’t arrive ready to stuff the buffet table into my face]
-Go for healthy snacks, as they keep blood sugar stable and rev the metabolism. Some good choices: fruits, nuts and yogurt. [Amazeballs, egg puffs, smoothies, small salads, veggies and hummus, banana or apple + almond butter, deli meat or tempeh rolled up with some goat cream cheese, Larabars]
-Aim to get enough fiber. Women need 25g per day and men need 38g. Not only does it help with satiety, it can help to prevent disease.
-Stay hydrated (avoid caffeine since it has a dehydrating effect, and we can easily mistake thirst for hunger). Take H2O in a bottle with you, or flavor it with some lemon zest [I also like to add fresh berries, cucumber, mint, or orange slices to add some flavor]
-Keep moving! Use the mall for cardio, walk and chat with a friend (extremely beneficial in such a technology-focused environment), find a class you love (an instructor who inspires you, amazing music make all the difference), work out with a buddy who will motivate you to reach your goals, make small changes.
-Choose wisely and don’t overdo it.
When it comes to the holidays, I really think it’s important to remove pressure from yourself as far as working out and eating perfectly. The holidays aren’t a time to go on a crazy diet or set some lofty fitness goals- it’s a time to kick back, relax and enjoy family, friends and the season. I think that it’s much easier to stick to what you want to achieve when you’re willing to cut yourself some slack. Enjoy dessert, just don’t enjoy it every single day at every chance you get –treats are everywhere, from now until New Year’s. I’ll usually go for the ones that are really *worth it* like my nana’s Bundt cake, or my other nana’s Thanksgiving pies. If it came from a factory, it’s not worth it to me.
[Thanksgiving table of dessert justice]
As far as cocktails go, I don’t really have to worry about that this year, but usually I’ll go for something clear with club soda, a beautiful cocktail or fancy pants glass of wine and savor it.
As far as fitness goes, if you’re running short on time, go for a quick and effective workout. HIIT is one of my faves- 20 minutes and you’ll torch a ton of calories and have a higher afterburn effect throughout the rest of the day. For weights, choose compound movements that work more than one muscle group at a time (like lunges with a bicep curl or overhead press).
Definitely look for the forest, not the trees, and in the grand scheme of things, if you’re *mostly* sticking to your usual habits, a few extras here and there are NBD.
What holiday meal/treat are you most looking forward to? What’s one of your tips for staying on track during the holiday season?
I cannot wait for Thanksgiving. Cranberry sauce, stuffing and pie… and I’m drooling.
When you leave a comment, you’ll be entered to win an amazing prize pack from Shape magazine:
-a one-year subscription to Shape magazine
-a yoga mat
-a stability ball
-a pedometer
-box of Fiber One Brownies
See ya in the morning with 10 Ways to Make November Gnarly <— help me with this title? haha
xoxo
Gina
**************************This giveaway has ended as of 11/3 12:01 AM EST. Stay tuned for more fun giveaways in the near future!
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My mom’s pumpkin pie is the best! Tips for staying on track: I try to workout in the morning, so that I make sure to fit it in to the busy holiday schedule. Plus it helps me to have lasting energy!
Ooooo great giveaway! I’m a big fan of Shape Magazine, and would love to win this prize!
My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving, and boy oh boy do I love the food that goes along with it. My Memere always makes a dish called “cranberry salad” which has cran jello, ginger ale, dream whip, walnuts, it’s delightful! It’s served as an appetizer in our family and it screams holidays to me!
I’m giving myself the goal to run at least twice a week and do strength training of some kind at least twice a week through this holiday season. It’s less than I usually do, but it’s making sure I don’t set myself up for failure!
Great giveaway Gina! I’m most looking forward to roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled in balsamic vinegar!! I know they’re not exactly indulgent but I could eat them like candy!! And healthy tips for staying on track for the holidays.. I’d say my main one would be to get up and move at least once a day. I definitely don’t make it to the gym as often as I would throughout the rest of the year during the holidays because of traveling to see family etc, but I always make sure I at least go for a walk or something during the day. 🙂
I am mostly looking forward to hot apple cider because on t-day we float orange slices in it and the flavor = yum!
It’ so true that the tips are always the same – the tough part is sticking to them! I’m most looking forward to foods at holiday parties – there’s always something new and interesting I haven’t tried. My favorite tip is just making sure it’s worth it. I wouldn’t want to spend my calories on something that is around 365 days of the year. Also, the 3 bites are always the best, so why keep going?
We’ve already had thanksgiving here but my fave treat for the holidays is my nan’s potato stuffing. It’s soooo amazing with turkey and even better on hot turkey sandwiches! Yum!
Hi Gina! I am very much looking forward to getting together with family, and baking a variety of christmas cookies! Nanaimo bars are certainly one of my favourites, can’t beat the custard.
I love this tips!
My favorite is christmas because we do the italian thing for dinner! Nothing better than salad and lasagna!
I love the crudite tray we put out (probably because lately it’s included hummus), and we only have when we all get together!
I’m a turkey fanatic – even tho it’s just me and my husband, we make a big bird so I can have leftovers. Thanksgiving isn’t the same without all the leftovers!
Take care,
Mo
Something that’s really helped me stay on track is embracing that it’s about the company, not the food. The food is just a little bonus, and I’m so much happier in the end if I bask in enjoying my family instead of trying to try everything on the table/at the party. That said, I love grazing on my mom’s cheeseballs. So delicious!
Focus on the people, not the food. I love Christmas cookies and my dad’s homemade stollen, but the really special thing about the holidays is celebrating with family and friends. Food will always be there. Take the time to nourish your relationships and enjoy having quality conversations with relatives and friends you don’t get to see often. That’ll keep you more full and happier longer than a Christmas cookie overdose ever will.
I loooovve Thanksgiving!! It’s by far my favorite holiday of the year. I believe my favorite treat has to be pumpkin pie! I also love all the snacks/appetizers my mom puts out before the meal- shrimp coctail anyone?! Yummy, I can’t wait!!!
I love Thanksgiving and the pumpkin pie and turkey are my favorite! One thing I always forget to use as an excuse NOT to over eat, is that you can always tell the host “we just came from another party” or “I’m still stuffed” if you just want to nibble instead of over indulging. Most people won’t care how much you eat as long as you’re socializing and having a good time.
I love the holiday season and there are so many favorites to look forward to. I think I am most excited about sweet potato casserole and apple pie for Thanksgiving!
I love the Holiday season primarily because I only get to see my extended family once or twice a year. I just graduated college and am trying to get in the swing of things as a career women. Sitting at a desk job has definately been a big adjustment. Next week our company is starting The Biggest Loser , healthy Gelia style. While I don’t need to lose a significant amount of weight I am still going to participate in the weigh ins which I hope will encourage me to stay focused during the next two months! Thank you for this opportunity!
I most look forward to stuffing and our annual 20 layer cake! So ready for it! To offset the damage, I always take a walk after Thanksgiving lunch and keep up with regular daily excercise. Everything in moderation!
OMG!!! I most certainly am Super Duper excited for Sweet Potato Suffle!! Yummy!! If any of you do not know what I am referring to .. let me enlighten you.. Homemade mashed sweet potatoes which are topped with mini marshmallows and pecans and baked to Golden Perfection!! My tip for stayin on track is do what you can.. if you have to shorten a workout or miss one its not the end of the world. Most of us make up for it with all the running around that we do during the Holiday Season. Also, enjoy the foods you really want .. Do not just eat anything just because it looks Delicious and is in front you.. Treat yourself always.. Just do it in Moderation!!
I would love to win that prize.. I am a major fan of Shape!!
I am so glad to hear some original tips! It’s awesome to hear them telling people that a couples extra treats during the holidays are NBD. It’s really difficult to see people struggle with completely abstaining and being miserable because they think that 1 cookie is going to make them gain 10 pounds. That’s why I love me some fitnessista it’s all about balance! 🙂
I am most looking forward to Panes…Thanksgiving Subs (latino style)…mmm.
I try to stay on track by staying active with the puppies. Sometimes the pups don’t get much exercise in the cold winter months.
I can’t wait for pumpkin pie, Christmas cookies, time off from work and being with family! I try to stay on track by not over indulging until the actual holiday instead of for days before and after. My family eats very clean so there are always multiple vegetables available on holidays in addition to the treats and food I don’t eat on a regular basis. We’re also big fans of walking and jogging outside so we make sure to add that to the routine each day, too!
I LOVE Christmas!! Seeing all the holiday stuff out in stores and hearing Christmas music on the radio is making me so happy. I’m not much of a Halloween person (had to work Halloween night this year, kind of felt like there was no halloween..) but Christmas – I’m all over it!! I put my tree up yesterday, which I know sounds crazy but it’s a 12ft tree, with all the work that goes into putting it up I want to enjoy it for as long as possible! 🙂
Thanksgiving already happened here in Canada. The way I stayed on track was sticking with my workout that morning and ate like I usually do for breakfast and lunch, kept everything lean, clean and green. Then during dinner I filled my plate with veggies but also enjoyed the good stuff in smaller portions. I’m not about to deprive myself on a holiday, that’s no fun! And then for dessert I made a vegan pumpkin pie and enjoyed a slice, it was fantastic! I think making something that’s somewhat healthy to share with everyone is a great way to still enjoy a holiday but not feel like you’re cheating or falling off the wagon, and it makes it easier to get back on track since you didn’t veer too far off the path.
I LOVE my aunt’s cranberries made with real cranberries. Nothing against the canned sauce, because that is good too, but the real thing is amazing! And halfway-healthy!
I cannot wait for Thanksgiving! Then in less than a month, Christmas is here.. definitely a great overall few months but after that it’s hard to get back on track and stay motivated!
I can’t wait for my great grandmothers Hershey Chocolate Mousse Pie, AHMAZING!!!! And I love Thanksgiving dinner, delish!
****New name “Knock it out November”***
Thanks for the giveaway!!!
xoxo
Chicken & noodles over mashed potatoes..with a lil butter!! 🙂 yummm! I try to work out in the morning because it warms me up AND then I have no excuse to skip it when I get tired later in the day.
My tip for staying on track for the holidays is to never skip a workout! If I can keep up with those, then I know I’ll be better off when I ‘sample’ every different holiday treat that comes my way!
My friend’s homemade Pecan pie.. nom nom nom 😀
I’ve only recently started loving Thanksgiving… and I plan to bring some healthy, vegetarian options that I know are safe. Like you said, it’s once a year so an indulgence here and there isn’t the end of the world.
I recently joined weight watchers and am already brainstorming ways to survive the holidays without completely blowing my diet plan (i’m not going to be super strict, just want to have a guideline). My plan is to make some yummy weight watchers friendly treats and sides to bring to T-Giving/Xmas.
I love this post! I can’t wait to try some healthier dishes this holiday season as well! My favorites are the cranberry sauce and the stuffing!
…and the vino! 😉
The Christmas rosettes are what I look forward to the most. So simple, just like funnel cake, but in pretty shapes. Family tradition is to make them on Christmas Eve and leave some out for Santa.
Yummo!
I love stuffing–it is absolutely my favorite part of Thanksgiving, though it’s all about portion control 🙂
I like Christmas and making homemade granola to give out to my girl friends, they love the healthy treat, it is always a hit!
Ana
I just read recently (in Cooking Light magazine I believe) that cutting back a little bit every day before the holidays, basically saving for treats that are ‘worth it’, will allow you to eat the good stuff during the holidays. The author of the article basically said that if he needs to pass up on a so so dessert on say, November 9, then he will feel better about eating a few more treats than normal once the holidays arrive.
I always look forward to my Mom’s coconut cake, it’s a recipe where she makes it a month in advance and lets it sit in the fridge. By the time Thanksgiving rolls around the cake is so moist and full of flavor I want to eat the whole thing! Also her cheese, crackers, and dip plates are a fav 🙂
I’m excited for Christmas eve – that’s when my family and I do an appetizer night an play board games. It’s so fun to just hang out and spend time with them 🙂
I got such strange looks on my bike at the gym last night , listening to Christmas music with a big goofy grin on my face.
What an awesome giveaway!! I’m so excited for Christmas… and I will probably put up my tree this weekend! I love having the decorations up as long as possible 🙂
Sounds like it was a great call! For me, there are two holiday treats I enjoy most – for Thanksgiving I love Sweet Potato casserole – yum, yum!
For Christmas, I love making *and eating!* an old traditional Indonesian dish called Opor Ayam. I make it with my elder Auntie each Christmas and it’s a dish that very few people in Indonesia still make today because it’s really time consuming. It involves:
– taking out nearly all of the insides (bones, meat except for in the legs and wings) of a whole chicken while keeping the skin in-tact
– grinding up and seasoning all the chicken meat and throwing in chopped veggies into the mix
– restuffing the chicken skin with the now boneless seasoned meat so that it looks like a whole chicken again
– roasting it and then serving it by cutting through the entire chicken and impressing guests that it’s now boneless!
Super delicious!
I always look forward to raspberry ribbons and lots of hot chocolate. To stay on track, I make it point to get to the gym and be more creative with winter workouts since it’s not always my first choice to run in 30 degree weather!
Thanks for the reminders on keeping in check this holiday season. I love your blog and the zumba videos yesterday were great- I wish I was as coordinated as you are!! I completely agree on passing up store bought, mass produced treats for the extra special homemade recipes.
I’ll usually splurge on homemade Christmas Cookies: my Grandmother’s recipe Sugar Cookies, Tassies, and Lady Fingers…yummo!
I’ve come up with some of my own traditions to keep on track for the holidays: I make these crazy good and super healthy cookies to take to parties with me, I always start Thanksgiving Day with a Yoga class, and I always take a long walk after presents on Christmas morning to enjoy the peace of the day (and hopefully some snow!)
This year, my mom and I have committed to a really simple challenge to keep our eye on the prize: we start every Saturday with a Green Smoothie and a Walk (two things we always do through the week, but tend to forget on the weekend)
I always looks forward to my Grandma’s apple pie and my Great-Grandma’s lefse. Those are the two goodies I get excited about every year….When I’m choosing treats during the holidays, I avoid things made from a store or factory (like you said), I choose things that I don’t normally get to eat or don’t make on my own, and I always try to eat slowly and savor everything on my plate. When I remember to enjoy eat bite I not only tend to avoid overeating but I also feel perfectly satisfied when the meal is over.
LOVE the holidays. I must say I’m a big stuffing fan as well. I don’t eat meat so its fun to try out new stuffing recipes each year and the family always loves trying them too. Also, I’m a cherry pie fan – only if its homemade though!
Shortbread cookies, the kind that are soft and crumbly at the same time. My weakness!
Thanks for the giveaway 🙂
i can’t wait for stuffing and pumpkin pie at thanksgiving!!
I’m looking forward to ALL my mom’s cooking: sweet potatoes, pie, cornbread–happy carbs galore! My trick to stay on track is to work out in the morning before the craziness of the day sets in. Otherwise it’s really hard to schedule time to work out!
I’m running a 5 mile race the morning of Thanksgiving. It will prevent me from getting crazy the night before since it is a big time for our friends to get together and i’ll kick off the day by scortching some calories and feeling great! I’ll also get to spend some time with my mom who is doing the 2 mile walk at the same time =)
Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. Cranberries and dressing and pecan pie are what I am looking forward to most.