***As a part of today’s Ohio Blogging Association‘s All State Blog Swap, I’m happy to introduce you to Kimberly from Smitten in Cleveland. Today bloggers all over Ohio are guest posting on one another blogs as a way to spread some blogging cheer in our community. Please check out my post over on Kimberly’s page and follow her favorite things about CLE! For a full listing of blog swap participants, please visit Poise in Parma today.***
Hi, I’m Kimberly and I blog over at SMITTEN…in cleveland where I celebrate everything I’m smitten with – be it food, fashion, beauty or home. A big thanks to Julie for letting me guest post today and share what I try to do to maintain a healthy balance when cookies are present during the holidays.
These days it seems we are all trying to find the right balance. Whether it’s with our family, career, eating/exercise habits or social time, the right balance can be elusive and tricky.
With the holiday season officially here it’s even more important to continue a well-balanced routine. Here are my go-to tricks and tips that usually keep me on track.
Start The Day Off Right
I am never hungry in the morning so I have to force myself to eat. I’m also not a fruit lover so finding ways to sneak this into my diet is key. I love Trader Joe’s steel cut oatmeal. Super easy to prepare and leaved you full til lunch. A smoothie is also a quick go-to as you can throw in whatever you have on hand. I always have frozen berries in the freezer so there’s no need to add ice. I also throw in a banana, some oats, coconut or almond milk and in 30 seconds I’m on my way.
Be Active
Do whatever you love. Yoga, running, spin class. Just do it. No cop outs. No “I’m too busy or tired.” Even a half-hour will rejuvenate you.
Snack & Eat Healthy
I always need a snack after working out or even just at my desk so I’m sure to have healthy options available at all times. Keep sliced cucumbers, almonds and sugar snap peas on hand ensure I can have something crunchy to nibble on.
Enjoy Yourself
Be in the moment. Soak it in. Whatever you’re doing at that moment is the most important thing. We are so used to multi-tasking that sometimes we just need to focus on one thing at a time.
Sit Down For Dinner
And I don’t mean in front of the laptop or tv. Put your fork down in between bites and really savor what you’re eating. Enjoy the conversation. This is the perfect time to reflect on the day.
Unplug
Put away the laptop, the phone and turn off the tv. (This is the hardest one for me!) Give your mind a break. Take a relaxing shower, have a glass of wine or read a book before bed. This will give your mind and body the time it needs to unwind and hopefully not wake up in the middle of the night.
Treat Yourself Wisely
If you deny yourself something, you’ll just end up craving it anyway. Have the cocktail, dessert, bread or piece of chocolate. Just remember portion control.
Laugh
Friends, family and work can all be stressful at times and it’s important to choose your battles. Let things roll off your back and laugh at the silliness. Have a good time. You can only control your thoughts and emotions. Be grateful for what you have.
Cheers and Happy Holidays~
