holiday temptation

       
          VS.







the holidays have arrived! starbucks has their red holiday inspired cups, left over halloween candy seems to be everywhere you look, and thanksgiving recipes are being exchanged. as much as i am a summer kinda girl as opposed to the winter, who doesn't love the holidays? my body doesn't that's for sure. between the combination of wearing more clothing, with room to hide some unwanted lbs and all the decadent treats and parties of the holidays... somehow my jeans have attendancy to get a little snug this time of year. one important thing to remember this holiday season is....

i am always reading, watching and listening for fitness and nutrition tips from any reliable source... i would consider myself quite knowledgeable about what is "healthy" and what is not. (not that i always put my knowledge to good use) to me, regular exercise is more than just a narcissistic pursuit to "look good", the benefits of exercise are plentiful...

• it combats your risk of dangerous health conditions and diseases. lowers your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and even cancer
• exercise increases serotonin in the brain, which leads to improved mental clarity. i.e...exercise improves your mood! which we could all use during the stress of the holidays.
• paradoxically, regular exercise boosts your energy. it makes your cardiovascular system work more efficiently, and when your heart and lungs are working more efficiently you have energy! another thing we need during the hectic holiday season.
• we all probably want to look our best for visiting friends and family over the holidays so its an extra bonus that exercise will help you burn calories, which is how you loose weight (duh.) and not only that but when you sweat you are disposing of impurities and dirt from your skin, leaving you with a beautiful complexion
• exercise also promotes better sleep. which is a personal favorite bonus of mine because i love my sleep!  regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep.
• and last but not least...exercise leaves you feeling energized and with a improved body image which in return has a positive effect on your sex life ;)