As the weather starts to dip in our fine country, you may notice your health commitments starting to dip as well. “It’s too cold” can be our excuse to ditch everything from a coffee date with friends to yet another workout. Here’s how to keep your healthy habits in check even when the sight of a farmer’s market is months away:
1) Not All Frozen Foods are Bad. When it looks like you will have to buy wilted vegetables flown from several countries away, this may be time to embrace the ice. Cauliflower, broccoli, peas and sweet potatoes are great options. Plus, they’re already diced and washed, which will save you prep time. Do read the packaging – you want to make sure you’re adding vitamins to your grocery cart and not a heavy dose of salt.
2) Make a Date & Keep It. Don’t ditch your opportunities to see your friends. Even though drudging through the snow is not the most appealing prospect, choosing a comfy café or bar with a roaring fire might make the journey more tolerable. Online social connections can be a good thing, but they’re no replacement for the depression staving benefits of seeing people who care how your day was.
3) Formally Book Your Workouts. You may no longer desire running outside or driving across town to catch your spinning class, but this doesn’t mean that you’re destined to wear your Christmas cookies on your behind. If you’re home and feeling cozy, stream a yoga class, Tabata workout or just play some music and dance like you’re Tom Cruise in Risky Business for half an hour. If you’re at work, book a spot in a gym near the office and leave right after work. Often pre-booking a class is non-refundable, which makes you accountable to maintain your exercise regime.
Sure, the weather outside may be frightful, but it doesn’t have to scare away your energy and your mood. We are Canadian – a hardy bunch who can fight through the cold to commit to healthy living.
