Whether you are going on vacation or having a stay-cation at home, mid-winter break can sometimes cause a “break” in your healthy eating...but it doesn't have to!
In my personal experience, and from working with many clients who struggle maintaining their healthy habits during a change in routine, it is mostly because of a mindset shift and lack of planning.
How many times have you thought, “I might as well, I'm on vacation!” or “I'll get back on track when I get home.” But then find that once you go off course for so long, it's really hard to build back those good habits. Here are some great tips for staying on track while on break.
Shift your mindset.
Here's a great example of where to apply Tony Robbin's popular quote, “Where focus goes, energy flows." The more you focus on something, the more energy you put towards it, the more it becomes your reality.
Make yourself a list of how good you feel when you are eating clean, in control of what and how much you eat. Really ramp up the emotions. ie. in control, free, alive, at peace….
Sometimes in the moment, it's hard to remember the reasons WHY we choose to make healthier choices but keeping this list handy while traveling makes it easier.
Plan ahead.
Take healthy snacks (cut up veggies, fruit) with you (or purchase them when you arrive) and keep them nearby so that you won't give in to your mid-meal hunger with empty calories. By not “breaking” from your healthy snacking habits, you'll give yourself the leeway to enjoy something a little extravagant for dinner or dessert if you choose.
Make your calories count.
While on vacation you may not be making all of your own meals, but you can still make healthier choices. When eating out, check the menu ahead and see what healthy options are available. Always order a big green salad and veggies, possibly a soup, which will keep you full and feeling good. Even if you decide to indulge a little ('treat', not ‘cheat’), choose things that you can really savor and enjoy. Don't waste calories on a bag of potato chips in the airport or a mid-afternoon cookie at a rest stop.
Stick to your water routine!
Water is available everywhere and sticking to your regular water routine is the #1 thing you can do to keep you on track. It will keep you full and will structure your day, even when your routine is different than normal. One hack is to bring an empty reusable water bottle with you onto the plane in your carry-on and ask the stewardess to fill it up. This way it doesn't spill all over and you know you've gotten at least 3 cups in. It's also great to have handy for refilling throughout your trip.
Wishing you all a wonderful week. If you are struggling to make healthy choices, I would love to help you learn even more tools to make lasting changes to your health & well being. Be in touch!
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