With the spirit of the holidays infecting us early (after all Christmas decorations were available before Thanksgiving), the chocolate, wine and all things unhealthy begin to seduce us.
One may wonder if the month of December isn’t the true test of our good intentions: those resolutions we made at the beginning the year. Yet, others may state with great emphasis that of all the months to enjoy yourself, December is the greatest month and why would you want to “Scrooge” yourself out of all the fun and delightful tastes that await?
Why, indeed. For yours truly, I hear a whisper of disappointment for every other guilty pleasure devoured. And every time I hear another whisper I devour more chocolate and drink more wine! Ha-ha, I was joking…partly.
I do find it interesting that December has the lowest number of health observances. This month brings us:
- World Aids Day (December 1st)
- Wash your hands for your health, and
- How to purchase safe toys and gifts.
I personally think this month would be good for resuscitating resolutions, renewing change, and exercising more!
According to the 2010 Time Use Survey, watching TV is the leisure activity of choice for all Americans aged 15 or older. On average Americans spent only half an hour moving around for health (participating in sports, exercise and recreation). While the survey did not go break down spent per month, I would bet that the winter months, especially December is the naughtiest month of all.
Curt says
I decided to take the “Biggest Loser” challenge and the “No Gain – Maintain” challenge at work this year. I don’t need to lose a lot of weight, but could still take a little money off of the challenge. But the biggest reason was to have more motivation to say no more ofteen to thse temptations you mentioned this month.
Mireya @myhealthyeatinghabits says
Honestly, I may fall in the middle this month.
Tabitha says
Curt – congratulations on taking on those challenges during the holiday season! The holiday temptations can be overwhelming and just learning to balance them can help in other ways as well (i.e. work/life). Do you have any co-workers participating with you to help stay motivated?
Tabitha says
Hi Mireya,
There is nothing wrong with falling in the middle or behind. I think one of the most important aspects is having an awareness, willingness and reality. I just remember having a feeling of “blaming the holidays” for any resolution setbacks, etc; when in fact, it wasn’t the holidays that were to blame but myself. I intend to enjoy my meals and the deliciousness that comes with…just in practiced moderation. 🙂
LivingFood101 says
My goal is to be a leader, but I feel like I have so much more to learn before I can truly lead. So I take it one step at a time…thanks for the inspiration!