How do you escape the holiday weight gain this year? Run.  Well, okay, you can walk.  Get the steps in, though.Exercise is always important, but now more than ever.  I know that you have added more stressful jobs to your already busy life, but you can still get your exercise in.  Make  those jobs a part of the exercise plan.

Have you been leaving your pedometer in the drawer lately?  It’s an excellent means of fitting in the movement you need to keep you fit.    Get it out and put it on — and start keeping track of your steps.

Shopping is an obvious and easy way to get more steps in.  So is cleaning and decorating.  Offer to be the one who runs errands and keep checking your step numbers.  You will be surprised at how many steps you accumulate.

As you exercise, you will feel better and more energized.  You won’t be as tempted to grab those “pick me up” goodies.  Exercise also makes you feel more in control — which helps you make wise choices.

Word of warning:  Watch out for the “I have extra steps so I can eat this fudge” mindset.  You might be able to eat an extra piece without problem — but not five pieces. If you might not stop, don’t start.

Eating to live and living for Christ,

Susan Jordan Brown