Boo! Ghosts and goblins are right around the corner, and with them comes the time of year when it’s easy for healthy habits to vanish mysteriously in the night. To prevent unhealthy spirits from haunting you and your family, use these tips from the YMCA of the Suncoast.
Brew a Healthy Cauldron: Fall is the time of year when some of the healthiest and most delicious flavors abound (think: apples and pumpkins). It’s also the time when the sugar witch can hijack good eating habits with a single spell. While it’s natural to indulge in a few sugary treats at this time of year, remember to keep fruits, vegetables and lean proteins at the heart of your meals. And keep those meals as regular as possible!
Arrange for Rest: Most people tend to get busier during the last quarter of the year, which means it’s easy for their sleep patterns to be disrupted. While it’s tempting to join the vampires, it would be a grave mistake not to pace yourself. Make sure you find plenty of time to “rest in peace” in your own bed. Scientists still recommend eight hours each night, and some advocate for nine to account for the time it takes to fall asleep.
Take Regular Broom Rides: Getting out and exercising is key at this time of year. It will help you maintain your weight if you’re enchanted by the season’s food and drink and will also keep your stress level from demonizing you. Take time for sports such as running (or walking), biking or dancing.
Cackle Loudly: This is a wonderful season to spend time with family and friends. Find fun, healthy activities such as exercising or cooking a great and healthy meal together. But most importantly, find time to laugh with them. It’s not only enjoyable, it’s good for your mind, body and spirit.
Carve Out a Plan: More than anything else, having a plan for the fall will help you avoid ghoulish consequences. Proactively planning for the each magical event will allow you to keep your family’s health on track, especially if you have family members with special health needs.