As we find ourselves in the midst of the holiday season, it is easy to become carried away with excitement. And with this season of giving comes propaganda that sways many away from their individual goals. Therefore, the Ultimate Transformation Moment in this issue pertains to individual control. Make your own decisions, and make your own choice about what will move you this holiday season.
During this time of the year we must maintain control over the aspects of our lives that we find most important while, at the same time, never losing awareness of our health and wellness journey. Don’t stop exercising. As a matter of fact, turn it up. This season give more effort to your daily workout routine.
The holidays are a great time. With a vacation from work, you now have more time to dedicate to fitness. Don’t let this time of leisure slow you down. Instead, speed it up in order to further reach your fitness goals.
The second thing to remember is nutrition. It’s important to stay in control and remain mindful of how much we eat throughout our day, especially at dinner. Portion size is key. The best way to keep control of portion size is by measuring the contents on your plate with your fist. Try to limit the portions of each item of food to less than half your fist size. I’m not suggesting that you deny yourself any foods, but let’s control what we eat at each meal. Taking this approach minimizes your caloric intake and allows you to eat dessert. Instead of eating the whole piece of pie, consider cutting it in half.
Remember, each year, from Thanksgiving to New Years, most people gain 8 to 12 pounds on average. Since 3,500 calories is a pound, a gain of 10 pounds in a six-week period, is 35,000 calories in excess. To do this every holiday season can create some major long-term health issues. To maintain control, measure portion size. Once the holidays have come and gone, you’ll thank yourself.
Thirdly, maintain your mental control. We can define our holiday seasons however we want. How do we want to celebrate? We don’t have to go broke or become so stressed that we can’t enjoy what’s important. Right now is the perfect time to talk to family members and decide how you want to celebrate with them. Don’t let the images in the media make you believe that the only way to please someone is by presenting them with a diamond necklace. The most thoughtful gifts come from the heart, and there are millions of ways to make each holiday memorable.
Finally, celebrate. We’re blessed everyday with an opportunity to become whoever we wish to be. We can celebrate the love between us any way we choose. So celebrate all that you have been blessed with in this life, and let your heart guide you this season to choose what’s best for you and your family.
Peace and be more.
Erich Nall is the owner and founder of Ultimate Transformations Training in Los Angeles. The certified trainer, nutritionist, motivational speaker, and dedicated life coach is a regular guest and commentator on KJLH 102.3 FM’s the “Front Page with Dominique DiPrima.” As founder of Collegiate Search Youth Organization, Erich has been assisting youth in the community for more than 20 years.
