4 Fad-Free Ways to Bounce Back After the Holidays

If you overindulged over the past couple months, you’re not alone. But now that the new year has officially begun, it’s time to get back on track and leave unhealthy habits behind. Read on for four ways to show your body some post-holiday love.

#1: Schedule some “me-time.” Taking time to connect with yourself, de-stressing and doing something you enjoy are important parts of functioning at your best. Some ideas to try are:

Escape with a book.

Get a massage.

Take a walk in the evening to stargaze. (Be sure to bundle up!)

Listen to soothing music.

Try a yoga class (or another exercise you enjoy).

Prepare your favorite healthy meal.

Take time for a hobby or other creative practice.

#2: Let it go. It is common for people to feel guilt after overindulging. Instead, use this experience as a learning opportunity. Acknowledge that you’re taking steps in the right direction – toward a happier, healthier you!

#3: Have fun with exercise. Even if we exercise, catch up on sleep, and eat well during the holidays, sometimes the aftermath alone can leave us feeling like we need to hit the refresh button. See if you can find a few fun seasonal activities to celebrate winter. If you feel like bundling up, work up a sweat in the great outdoors by:

Taking a walk with a friend (or your dog)

Shoveling snow (or other yard work)

Participating in a charity 5k

Trying a new winter activity, such as snowshoeing, sledding, skiing, snowboarding, snow flag football or soccer, ice hockey, or ice-skating

Hitting the gym

Trying a new YouTube workout video

#4 Take a break from unhealthy food. Now that the feasts have ended, give your digestive system a break by eating healthier options. Try broth-based soups, smoothies and other easily digestible foods. Consider adding in dark leafy greens (like kale or spinach) to your smoothies or raw or steamed veggies as a side with your meals. Challenge yourself to choose filtered or spring water as your drink of choice to slash calories and stay hydrated in winter’s dry weather.