|
Give the gift of health this holiday season
Give the gift of health |this holiday seasonThis holiday season give the gift of health to yourself - and your friends and family - by making shopping and the exchanging of gifts an exercise in health and fitness.
Shopping is a great way to include exercise in your day, especially when holiday activities keep you from getting to the gym. When heading out to the mall, choose the farthest parking spot in the lot. Walking those extra steps is an easy way to make a difference.
Start with a brisk walk through the mall or up and down the aisles of a store. It's a great way to clear your head and gather your thoughts before the spending begins.
When you arrive home, make a few trips to unload the car instead of trying to bring in all your packages at once. After you've brought in your packages, relax with a cup of herbal tea or low-fat chocolate milk for a low-calorie beverage. You can enjoy a couple of holiday treats, too. Just remember that portion control is key to eating healthy.
Here are some gift ideas to put on your wish list or to give to others this holiday season:
• A journal for recording your thoughts, activities or goals.
• A subscription to a health-related magazine. Cooking Light is my favorite.
• A recipe organizer to keep track of your favorite recipes.
• A membership to a gym or gift certificate for a yoga class.
• A gift basket of healthy foods (olive oil, almonds, flax seed, dried fruit, flavored vinegars, sun-dried tomatoes, whole-wheat pasta, etc.)
• Hand weights or an exercise ball and instructional book or DVD.
• Cooking items, such as a nonstick skillet or set of cutting boards.
Registered dietitian Pat Palmisano is regional health promotion supervisor at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. For more health tips, visit www.excellusbcbs.com.
|
