Quick Tips To Stay Fit Over
The Holidays By Laurette Willis, CHC “I am the bread of life” John 6:48 Those words really put holiday overindulgence into perspective don’t they? Perhaps the overindulgence we could enter into this Thanksgiving and Christmas is filling up on the “bread of life” instead of the bread of this world; after all, Jesus was placed in a manger (a feeding trough!) as a baby. When we think of the bread of this world, do you think of physical bread? It can be that as well as what I call the soul junk food of this world. I’m referring to many of the things that pass for entertainment these days. Sorry to be meddling, but you know what? I discovered that when I fill up on the world’s junk food through my eyes and ears, I also seem to want to satisfy my mouth with the world’s processed junk foods for my body. Isn’t that a bizarre connection? Makes sense though, right? When I’m taking in less life through the Word into my spirit, my discernment and choices in other areas of my life aren’t as clear or focused. Here are some physical and spiritual tips to sail through the holy-days with joy! Eat small, frequent *real food* meals In order to keep from over-indulging and regretting it later, eat small, unprocessed snacks every three to four hours instead of only a couple of huge meals and processed food snacks. Eat food that IS food (vegetables, fruit, dairy, eggs, meat), instead of a lot of ingredients put together in a factory. Keep away from gluten and fried foods. You will feel so much better, I promise! This will also
boost your metabolism, especially when combined with exercise. Pick a *Scripture Snack* each day Fill up on real soul food! Pick one “Scripture snack” to chew on each day. Today your “snack” from the Word can be the verse at the beginning of this article where Jesus said, “I am the bread of life.” Throughout the day go back to that Word and ask the Lord to give you new revelation on it. You will notice your focus becomes clearer; you will make better choices in a number of areas and you will feel satisfied on the inside (not stuffed and numb from overindulging the flesh as we’ve done so many times before). Paint your plate Paint your plate with food, that is! Experts say that a colorful plate leads to better health. Don’t opt for a plate that’s beige and yellow-brown with just turkey, potatoes and stuffing on it. Add greens and red vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots and red cabbage for a colorful, flavorful plate! Make time to exercise during the holidays Many gain weight during Thanksgiving and Christmas, but you don’t have to do so! Exercise helps, but most of us have very little time to exercise at this busy time. The solution is to work exercise into what you are already doing. Here are some ways you can do just that! Wear a Pedometer One of the easiest ways to monitor physical activity is to wear a pedometer. Most experts recommend 10,000 steps throughout the day. You may discover you walk