The Bermuda Triangle of Weight Loss

 We are quickly approaching the temptations and distractions of the holiday season. Seekers of healthy eating habits run the risk of slowed motivation and lost effort while traveling through the Bermuda Triangle of Weight Loss (Halloween - Thanksgiving - Christmas/New Year).
 
This can be one of the most challenging times of year for the health-minded. Routines are often interrupted and can easily sabotage our pursuit of wellness. Use these tips to create a simple Flight Plan to navigate safely through the joys and challenges of the holiday season:

• Have a clear destination (set realistic goals): take a moment to set a realistic weight-related or behavior-related goal for the season. Whether you commit to a regular exercise routine to combat holiday stress or aim for a number on the scale, goals are an essential strategy for success.  Are you concerned about depriving yourself of all the tasty treats of the season? Consider setting a goal to maintain your weight, instead of losing. Then make a serious commitment to resume your efforts in the new year.

 

• Monitor your in-flight status (track all food and beverages): If you bite it, write it! If you drink it, ink it! Research has proven that food journaling provides a valuable habit that adds honesty and commitment to your plan. Have you ever recorded your feelings along with your food intake? Do you see a correlation between your food choices and your mood? This is especially helpful if you are an emotional eater.
  
  
• Check in with the flight tower regularly (find a way to stay accountable): support is essential in weight loss and maintenance. Make it a priority to stay connected to your accountabili-buddy, online support group, weight loss program, or even leaning on friends and family can help you maintain control of your eating habits and keep you motivated right through the holidays.

 
Whenever you are struggling and tempted to give up throughout the holidays, take a minute to revisit your Flight Plan. Remind yourself that there is no immediate danger and no need to overreact. The object during the holiday season is to keep your healthy efforts flying! Without a plan, who knows where you will land on your wellness journey.
 
Don't take a holiday from your healthy efforts this season. Make yourself a priority by planning ahead and staying connected right through the new year! Enjoy holiday tips, accountability and support by registering for my FREE 14-Day Healthy Holiday Challenge. E-mail me at sarawolfsen@gmail.com to sign-up today!
 
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Sara Wolfsen is a Certified Health & Lifestyle Coach who specializes in helping people make their own healthy changes by providing private health coaching, nutrition education and wellness classes, and gentle weight-loss guidance and support.  Schedule your complimentary coaching session and learn more online at www.sarawolfsen.com.