Some Holiday Coping Tips Gathered By RFS Team Member, Isabel Murphy

Gracie Cavnar
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The holidays are a wonderful time to unwind IsabelMurphy2.jpgwith family, enjoy life and indulge. If all of the rich food and drink has you feeling a bit bogged down, try some of these restorative tips put together by the team at Recipe for Success. You'll feel refreshed, detoxified and clear-headed--ready to take on 2010!

 

  1. Hydrate! Drink as much water as you can to flush any toxins out of your system. Start your day with a tall glass of warm water with lemon to get your 'juices' flowing. Drink throughout the day to prevent false hunger pangs.
  2. Move! Exercise a little every day and try to sweat at least 3-4 times a week. On days when you are not pushing yourself, take walks or do some stretches or yoga. Getting your heart rate up will move toxins out of your bloodstream and invigorate you.
  3. Sleep as much as you can--a tired body will be difficult to balance. Most people feel best after 7-8 hours of rest.
  4. Cut out the culprits: you don't have to give up alcohol, caffeine and sugar forever, but you might consider giving your body a bit of a break. Try cutting them out for a week or two or switch to healthier options like red wine, green tea or agave.
  5. Eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible. Put fresh, organic produce at the center of every meal. Aim for at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
  6. Support local growers by shopping at farmer's markets: eating locally will give you access to some of the freshest food and will help support your community.
  7. Cut out 'white' foods as much as possible: eat only whole grains like quinoa, oats, millet, buckwheat and spelt.
  8. Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are 80 % full: this leaves the body critical room to digest and will make processing food easier. Also, wait until one meal is digested before eating the next--it takes about 4 hours for your body to fully process its food.
  9. Set realistic goals: if you are interested in losing weight, do it in specific increments. First aim for a pound or two, then a pound or two more. Don't set yourself up for frustration by resolving to lose 20 pounds. Make a timeframe, mark your calendar and stick to it.
  10. Volunteer! Getting out in the community will make you feel fulfilled and renewed. Come help us change the way children understand, appreciate and eat their food. Visit www.recipeforsuccess.org.