Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/592488
T he holidays are upon us again. As we enter the season of family dinners, rainy weather, and office parties— not to mention pumpkin spice lattes—it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Following a few simple yet effective tips can help keep you healthy, happy and fit during the coming months. DRINK WATER Regardless of the weather, it's easy to become dehydrated. Drinking water regularly can keep you from getting fatigued during this busy season. This is especially important while consuming alcohol, which is a huge source of calories and sugar. Drinking water between alcoholic beverages can help prevent overindulgence, which leads to a host of health and other problems. KEEP EXERCISING Sticking to your exercise program can be difficult this time of year. Create a weekly exercise schedule that includes dedicated time and specific activities. Stick to it by keeping a log or hiring a personal trainer. Remember, 20 to 30 minutes a day, five days a week, can make a world of difference with your stress level and sleep pattern. WATCH WHAT YOU EAT Diet is half the battle. Who hasn't overeaten during the holidays? It's hard to avoid. But you can win. Keep healthy snacks handy and munch on them when hunger calls throughout the day. Mixed nuts and fresh vegetables go a long way toward preventing overeating. Try to make sure you don't skip meals in order to "make room" for a big dinner. It will only serve to accelerate your appetite and cause you to eat more than you normally would. GET LOTS OF SLEEP As joyous as this time of year can be, many people experience increased stress. Surprise, surprise! Counter stress with a regular sleep schedule. By getting eight hours of sleep a night, you can wake up ready to take on whatever surprises the season brings. By following these tips, you can make a big difference in your quality of life and overall well-being. —Eric Williamson is the WAC Masters Swim Coach and a personal trainer. Reach him at ewilliamson@wac.net. How to have a healthy holiday Raise your (water) glass to a season of health and happiness Getting Fit By Eric Williamson, WAC Masters Swim Coach and Personal Trainer 28 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015