The Holidays are stated as the #1 time of year when people gain weight. Statistics say that most people gain between 5-12 pounds between Halloween and New Years’! 

Here are my best tips to feel Inner Athlete Fit through the Holidays — which means not only staying healthy, vibrant, and strong….. but also happy and stress-free.

1. Learn to Say No:
During the holidays you are likely invited to many parties and events. Sometimes, you just can’t get to all of them — and it’s OK to say no when you’re feeling over-scheduled. Running yourself ragged while trying to please everyone by making appearances is only going to make you feel tired. This will most definitely lead to poor eating choices, and increases your chances for getting sick. Learn to say NO and take care of you!

2. Take Your Vitamins — Religiously:
When we get super busy, we tend to drop some of our healthiest habits. But now is the time to take your vitamins daily. Think of your vitamins as your insurance plan! If you take them when you begin feeling sick, they may help you recover faster. Yet if you take them every single day and don’t skip, you’re more likely to beat getting sick, keep your energy up, and deal with stress better.

3. Schedule Time For YOU:
Even though we like to give give give during the holidays, it’s still important to give to yourself and your body. Schedule self-care and down time every week to stay energized and not feel overwhelmed mentally.

4. Stick To The ASHFit Formula:
Remember my trick to having a healthy meal or snack? Lean protein, healthy fat, fiber and healthy carb — in every meal or snack to keep your blood sugar stable, reduce cravings, mood swings, and the urge to overeat.

5. Bring A Healthy Dish:
As I always say – when it’s appropriate, bring a healthy dish to share at parties or events. And if it’s not appropriate, be sure to eat something before you go. It’s best not to show up with an empty stomach. 🙂

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season — staying healthy, vibrant, strong, and feeling your best as we close out 2016!

Easy Roasted Root Veggies

Root Vegetables are in season in most parts of the world right now and are jam-packed with nutrients. Plus, they are very grounding in winter — keeping you warm and full without making you feel stuffed.

What you need:
5-6 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 large red beets, peeled and chopped
2-3 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 TBSP melted coconut oil
celtic sea salt
fresh ground pepper
dash of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:
Preheat Oven to 400 degrees F
Wash, peel, chop all veggies and put in a baking pan
drizzle coconut oil, pinch of sea salt, ground pepper, and cinnamon
Pop in oven for about 25 minutes or until all veggies are soft and slightly browned

Enjoy!