Want to survive the endless social engagements, family commitments, Christmas shopping despite that flat no-energy end of year feeling and hopefully with dignity in tact? Health writer Estelle Ellis asked a few experts how to do it.
Smooth things over the morning after …
VETERAN pharmacist and owner of Stanley’s Pharmacy in New York Stanley George designed this smoothie to “prescribe” for clients who were looking for a hangover cure. Blend the following together and drink.
• 1 Tbsp coconut oil – to help brain function and balance glucose levels
• 1 cup Greek or nut yogurt – probiotics help to bring back digestive balance (you can go with water kefir, too)
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds – also excellent for digestive balance
• 1 small banana – for potassium and to help soothe your stomach
• ½ cup frozen spinach or kale – to aid in detox and alkalinity
• ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries – powerful antioxidants to help the system reverse yesterday’s damage
• 1 cup coconut water – to hydrate and restore electrolytes
• Honey and cinnamon to taste – excellent mood elevators
• 2-3 ice cubes
Yes, you can get off the couch
JANA van der Spuy from Viva Gym shared her expert tips to get moving when gravity was winning. She says breaking the hold that gravity and end-of-year tiredness have on you is not easy but here are a few of her suggestions:
• Face your fears If you are not going to gym there has to be a reason. Look the beast in the eye and realise that being self-conscious, or worried about people’s opinions will not help if you want to live a healthier lifestyle. Once you admit your reasoning behind neglecting workouts, you will be one step closer to getting over it and wanting to go to the gym more.
• Slow and steady wins the race When you are trying to get back into your training routine, do not go for the whole nine yards on your first session. You will be left sore and wondering to yourself why anyone would put themselves through such torture. So pace yourself for your body to adjust.
• Find your inspiration Every different person draws upon their own inspiration when it comes to really motivating themselves. For some people it is music, for others a picture or an inspirational quote. Find something to inspire you to jumpstart off the sofa and towards the gym.
• Be comfortable in your gear For example, a new pair of shoes will hurt you unless you break them in properly. Those quick-drying shirts can cause a rash when you wear them for the first time. As simple as it sounds, you do not want to give up gym again because of a stupid mistake like this.
• Stick to what you enjoy If you despise the weight room, then do not hit the weight room. If you do not like running, do not run. Gym is not a job – if you are going to go consistently, then you have got to find something to enjoy. • Find exercises and fitness schedules that you can learn to love In doing so you will start looking forward to your next sessions with anticipation.
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