When trying to stay on track during a holiday weekend, remember while it is okay for you to indulge on a few favorite treats, this is a perfect opportunity for you practice really creating a lifestyle of healthy living. Balance is key.
· Hydration
o Make sure to constantly be consuming lots of water or flavored seltzer. This will help to keep you a little fuller and curb cravings.
· You are practicing a lifestyle!
o Be conscious of the foods you are choosing. Although it may be a holiday, you do not want to overindulge. Be the person who brings the veggie platter or fruit bowl to the BBQ this weekend so you know there will be plenty of healthy options for you to snack on!
· Pick up the smallest plate
o Your brain tricks you and you will eat less without noticing, because your plate will become full FASTER! This will help you to portion out indulgences much easier.
· Make your cocktail low-cal
o Use delicious seltzers like La Croix in combination with vodka or rum. Add fresh mint or basil for another dash of fresh flavor.
· Squeeze in a longer workout
o It’s the weekend—you have more time! Wake up early and go for a run or a leisurely jog with friends. Staying active is key and will keep you in the right mindset all weekend long.
· Take note of your splurges
o Its okay to treat yourself during a holiday weekend. However, if you splurge in every meal, you will then begin to feel sluggish with low energy levels. Try to stick with your normal weekday habits, with a few splurges when you want them. This will create a balance between no deprivation and not beating yourself up over the fact you went overboard during the weekend.
4th of July Recipe Idea:
Watermelon Salad
2 lbs. fresh watermelon, cut into cubes (1/2 – 1 inch)
1 cup jicama, cut into cubes (1/4 – 1/2 inch)
1 large cucumber, optionally peeled, cut into cubes (1/4 – 1/2 inch)
1 pint blueberries
1 handful fresh basil, chopped (maybe 1/4 cup)
1 small handful fresh mint, chopped (maybe 1/8th cup)
1/2 lime, juiced