The holiday season can be a great time to relax, but it can also be a time for more stress than usual. Money is one of the biggest contributing factors to that, but worries about your health can also play a part. Many people use the holidays as an excuse to overindulge, but sticking to both your budget and fitness plans will keep you on track and set you up for success in the new year. Keep some of these tips in mind to keep your holidays healthy and budget-friendly…
Plan your meals ahead of time. Help both your wallet and your waistline by planning for and preparing meals in advance. Planning for what you’ll need allows you some extra time to check for sales or specials on particular necessities, or clip a few extra coupons for items you don’t usually purchase. Have a few events coming up that you know might be packed with tasty treats? Prep some healthier meal and snack options for the rest of the week to offset a night of indulgence.
Eat at home. The holiday season sometimes brings with it a little extra time off. When friends and family are in town, it can be easy to meet up for a night out, which can take a toll on your budget and your belly. Not only are you spending extra cash, but restaurants don’t always offer the healthiest of selections. Stay in instead and enjoy a home-cooked meal with loved ones.
Enjoy the outdoors. While winter can generally get pretty cold in most places, take advantage of those rare sunny days with warmer temperatures and head outside! There are a ton of ways to stay active outdoors for free or at a minimal cost throughout the winter months. Take a walk around your neighborhood and notice the changes a new season brings, or spend the afternoon at a local ice skating rink. Venture out and chop down your own Christmas tree, or go sled-riding. The choice is yours!
Buddy up! No need to pay for a personal trainer to keep you on track. Find a friend who shares your mindset, and hold each other accountable for the decisions you make about what you’re eating AND what you’re spending. Encourage each other to make smart decisions instead of pointing out mistakes. It’s a lot easier to stick to your plans when you have a support system in place.
How do you keep both your budget and your body on track throughout the holiday season? We’d love to have you share your tips with us!
