Holiday Guilt

Is your holiday guilt visible for all to see? Did your middle expand just a little too much? Is your waist like the equator - bigger than any other part of your body?

OK, shake it off. Don't fall into the trap of trying to live on carrots and celery to remove the belly bulge. Just because you over did the goodies during the holidays does not mean that you starve for the next 2 months. In fact, trying the starvation thing is just going to throw your body into a slower metabolism mode.

During the winter months it is more difficult to get outside. There is the cold, the fear of falling and the gray skies. If you are sun starved it is hard to get in the mood to exercise. Since exercise is just moving your body, you may need to start making extra steps and trips in your daily chores. Stop being efficient and make 3 trips when normally you would make 1. Think of hanging up clean laundry in your closet. Make 3 trips - hang up blouses then pants then skirts -- you get the idea.

If you are lucky enough to have some home gym equipment, use it for more than a clothes hanger. Focus on weight training or growing muscle. The more muscle the easier it is to burn off calories.

The big problem with belly bulge is that there is fat both over and under the existing muscle. It is harder to build up those core muscles that are necessary for the flat trim belly. Yes it is harder but not impossible.

Your choices are live and die young with the belly bulge or start right now building those core muscles, building the muscles in your arms and legs and cutting out the sweets and fats. Before you know it, it will be New Years Again. Wouldn't you like to have a little wiggle room when faced with next season's holiday meals.

until next time -- pick up those hand weights and smile

Sharon