This post is a little different from my usual fashion/beauty posts, but I thought it might be helpful for some of you. I'm a complete fitness fanatic and while Christmas is one of my favourite times of year, it can definitely take it's toll on my health and fitness. All those late nights, hangovers and mince pies will do your body no good - they are good
for the soul however! In no way am I saying do not enjoy yourself, because
that is ridiculous! I am simply sharing a few tips for still looking gorgeous
in your NYE dress after a fortnight of partying and buffets.
Eat well throughout the day
I know that people have a habit of not eating during the day
of a big party so they can save calories for all the alcohol they are going to
drink, or so they get drunk quicker, this is a terrible idea! Not only will you
have a truly horrific hangover the next day if you drink lots on an empty
stomach, you will be bloated and lack energy the next day (also intensifying
the hangover). This means you will just reach for any food in sight in hope of
a cure, thus continuing the cycle.
It is much better to eat small, nutritious meals throughout
the day to ensure your normal body function is maintained. This is because
alcohol interrupts the normal action of the metabolism. Porridge is good to have
for breakfast as it keeps you full, also eggs are great as the protein really
fills you up without bloating you.
Furthermore, eating throughout the day means you are less likely to
binge eat and stuff yourself with too much party food! Don't deprive yourself
however, just have a small portion of what you fancy (I LOVE mince pies) and
leave it at that.
If you really are a dessert lover, like me, try
experimenting with recipes to see if you can make your favourite Christmas
treats a little healthier. There is a great blog called Deliciously Ella and she posts all sorts of healthy recipes, including these guilt-free gingerbread men! This is a great
way to keep your waistline in check and also get in that family time; my sister loves to bake so this is something we could do together.
(Photo from Deliciously Ella)
Keep hydrated
This is my most important tip: you must drink water!
Drinking more water actually flushes out any excess water your body may be
holding so you will actually look less bloated - great for those bodycon dress lovers.
Also, staying hydrated throughout the day will lessen your hangover. I suggest
drinking a small glass of water between every few drinks and also I always
drink a solid 2 pints when I get home from a party before I go to sleep. Ta da!
Headache free morning!
If you find pure water a little boring, add lemon wedges or
cucumber to give it a little flavour, this is also very good for ridding the
body of toxins. Boiled water with a lemon wedge is great for flushing out the
body, so I definitely suggest this the next morning. You can also add
strawberries and raspberries to your water.
Green tea is also great for bloating, but if you don't like the
taste of green tea on its own, try a flavoured one. Grapefruit and pineapple by
Twinnings is my favourite.
Set realistic exercise goals
Exercising is purely a habit for me, so no matter how
hungover I am, I will most likely go for a run or do a little home circuit just
to get me sweating a bit. Exercise is good for a hangover as the sweating
actually releases all the nasty alcohol from your body. Mind you, be sensible!
If you are still a bit drunk and dizzy, wait till later in the day!
Its really awkward to get into a good routine over Christmas
when it comes to exercise as gyms are shut and such, but don't forget you can
always exercise at home! There are some great videos on YouTube that can easily
be done in your living room without any equipment. I recommend trying
Blogilates, it's pilates with a difference - Google it!
You can also get in a bit of exercise whilst keeping up
family time, maybe you could all go for a Boxing Day walk together, every little helps!
Rest
Christmas is a very hectic time, all the parties and visits
etc, but its very important you get enough rest. Not only will lack of sleep
take its toll on your patience and brain function, your body will show it too.
Dull skin, lack-lustre hair and bloating are all signs of partying too hard.
Getting home at 3am is great until you remember you are setting off to visit
that distant Auntie at 9am the next day! If you find it hard to get sleep at
night... Take naps! 20-30 minute naps are perfect for perking you up and are
short enough to not be anti-social.
Christmas is the time to indulge, relax and have fun. I hope
these quick tips help you all do that whilst still maintaining your health!
