Healthy Chicks

While this drastic weather change is expected for us New Englanders, it still doesn’t get any easier to watch the sunshine go and await for the snow to come, and let me tell you it’s-a-comin’ soon. Just yesterday my roommate said to me, “Looks like I’m gonna have to break out my sleeping bag coat much sooner than I thought.” You see, we both have these hideous, sleeping-bag insulated coats that keep us alive in the depths of winter. While we stored them away what seems like just yesterday, it looks like they’re going to have to come out of the closet sooner than we thought. My roommate was also bummed out about the 40-degree weather because it made her commute to the gym not so appealing after all. Not to mention the inevitable weight gain that comes around this time of year from too many goodies, baggy clothing and not enough exercising. What a bummer. So what did we do? We both sat there on the couch, watching The Millionaire Matchmaker and dreading the frigid months ahead. 

We looked miserable. But it wasn’t just us; it seems everyone I’ve been talking to lately is getting a little bummed out this time of year. I don’t know if it’s SAD, or we’re just being overly sad, but one thing is for sure: something needs to change. We all have to unite together and find some way to add a little more sunshine back into our lives, even if it’s lacking outside. While I don’t have the power to bring back Mr. Golden Sun, I think I have a few tips that might help a little…

*Purchase some workout DVDs: Not only will this give you feel-good endorphins, but it’ll also help on those days you reallllllllyyyyy don’t want to go to the gym. And if you’re like me and become a complete grouch when you don’t exercise, this is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Not to mention it’ll give you a fresh, new routine and help to challenge your body in new, invigorating ways. I just bought Core Fusion Body Sculpt and can’t wait to start today! 

*Liven Up Your Wardrobe: Of course you’re going to be sad putting away all your hot summer items when all you see are baggy old sweaters and oversized coats in your closet. Treat yourself to a shopping spree, but be careful only to get things you absolutely LOVE and need. Who said winter fashion had to be ugly? Buy some form-fitting sweater dresses, leggings ‘n’ tights with fun designs, or those boots you’ve been eyeing for months! When you feel good about how you look, your mood will improve too. 

*Eat Wisely: Be careful with what you treat yourself to this time of year. It’s easy to get carried away when you’re bundled up in oversized sweats all night long. Definitely treat yourself to what you want, but be extra mindful of listening to your body. When you are full, stop. It’s as simple as that. No need to get carried away!  A little trick? When you are craving something extra-sinful, wait at least 10 minutes to see if you realllllyyy want it. If indeed you do, then go ahead and have that cookie/brownie/piece of cake/whatever but eat it slowly, enjoy it and move on with it. Also, share it with a friend or wrap it up for later if you don’t want to eat the whole thing. 

*Do Something Fun…Indoors: No need to torture yourself in the 30-degree weather all day. Just because outdoor festivals, BBQs and events are over with for the season doesn’t mean you have to suffer. Research events near you so you can get out of the house and do something fun with a group of friends! This time of year is loaded with things to to, from local wine tastings and plays to seminars and basketball/hockey games. You can browse through a variety of Boston events here by category!

What do you do to stay perky & happy during the colder months? I’d love to hear your input…