Staying Fit and Having Fun for the Holidays

The winter holidays are a special time of year for crusted pies, sprinkled cookies, and festive desserts. The warmth of hot chocolate and crunchy candy canes melts the appetite. The holiday goodies are not so gentle on the body. The colder temperature puts a damper on exercising and staying fit. The extra pounds can also accumulate with the numerous parties that flourish during these festivities. Here are a few suggestions for keeping healthy.

Fitness:

Start or continue in some type of exercise. If you already have a gym membership, or would like to, this is an ideal time join.  offers a free seven-day trial. This a modern, updated facility, and has a convenient child-care center. The group classes are an easier way to stay motivated and break a mundane routine. The variety of classes is fun, focus on different muscles groups, and include a variety of cardiovascular workouts. Yoga, also offered at Big Sky, is also productive in reducing stress during this busier part of the year.

Big Sky Fitness for the Human race, Simsbury: www.bigskyfitness.com

Relaxation:

For yogis, there is also a unique yoga studio in Simsbury. A former mechanic's garage is now a modern Bikram (hot) yoga venue.  is currently offering $30 for 30 days for first-time clients. Hot yoga is an excellent method to burn calories and relax during a busy workday, or to have some much-needed silence.

Bikram Yoga In the Valley, Simsbury: www.bikramyogasimsbury.com

Group Exercise:

Motivation is essential in maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Be honest — if a friend, spouse, or partner is easier to workout with, suggest to him or her to accompany you to a desired location: gym, a walk (Farmington Valley Trails), yoga, etc. Little things count.

Small Steps Count:

Renowned nutritionist Gillian McKeith recommends "a brisk walk for 30 minutes before a meal." If the allotted time is not accessible, here are some quick suggestions: Walk to your mailbox instead of driving, take a brisk walk with the dog and take the stairs instead of the elevator. Take five minutes to walk around your office at work before you eat lunch. Get the blood flowing.

Dr. Gillian McKeith: www.gillianmckeith.info

Fiber, Yes Please:

Portion control complements weight control. This part is not the easiest, but key to preventing/controlling diabetes, health problems and lethargy. A high-fiber diet maintains a functional colon and aides in toxin removal. Vegetables like peas are high in fiber and grains such as oat bran. Garden of Light, in Avon offRoute 44, has an assorted selection of fiber supplements.

Garden of Light, Avon: www.gardenoflight.net

Social Gatherings:

Party affairs become somewhat socially awkward when it comes to food. Saying "no thanks" to snacks/desserts/alcohol is okay. As long as you eat a modest dinner, you can decide whether or not to give up wine or a dessert. Thinks of desserts and snacks as optional. Waiting 10 to 15 minutes after your first plate transmits to the brain that you're full.

Keep Going, Don't Give Up:

Although you don't have to be obsessive about your calorie intake, being mindful will help prevent holiday gain. Remember, if you fail one week, don't get discouraged for the next week. Every day is a new beginning.