Evening Habits for Weight Loss

When you're trying to lose weight, it can seem like there's a never-ending barrage of temptation as you go about your day. And it doesn't stop when you get home — evenings on the couch can ruin a day full of healthy choices if you're employing bad habits. So when it comes to staying on track in the evening, make sure you pay attention to these rules.

Stop after dinner: It can be easy to mindlessly snack away while you relax, so make an effort to stay aware of why you're reaching for your pantry door. If you're doing it because you're bored or out of habit, try spending more time out of the kitchen or drinking peppermint tea instead of snacking.

Choose your snack: Eating an early dinner can mean you're ravenous before bedtime, so if that's the case there's nothing wrong with having a healthy snack later in the evening. Just keep things light; make sure that you don't eat something that will disrupt your sleep or undo all your work from the day. 

Get ready for (good) sleep: Not only does getting quality sleep ensure that you have enough energy the next day for your workout, but studies have shown that people who don't get enough sleep end up eating more than those who do. Start the next day off on the right foot and you'll be more likely to make healthy decisions that are good for you and your waistline. A nightly bedtime routine, like reading a book or drinking a cup of herbal tea, can help you wind down.

* Original article: 3 Evening Habits for Weight Loss {from Fitsugar}

Too Little Sleep?

 (source)

When you don't sleep well, the next day can feel like a big struggle. Luckily, some sleeping issues can be easily remedied by changing your old ways and welcoming brand-new bedtime rituals. For better sleep, creating a nighttime routine can promote a restful night that's hopefully full of sweet dreams.

Turn off the tech: Right now, unwinding at night may mean hanging out on your computer or turning on the tube for a few hours. But looking at screens late into the night can mess with your internal clock. Make a conscious effort to turn off all electronics at least 20 minutes before bedtime for more sound sleep.

Play soothing sounds: Loud music blaring isn't your best bet for bedtime, but certain softer sounds can help lull you into a tranquil mood. A guided meditation can provide some welcome restful assistance at bedtime, or try to listen to calming tunes before climbing into bed.

Stretch it out: Yoga your way into bed! Create a new nighttime ritual with calming poses like Extended Puppy and Butterfly. Intense exercise before bed can interfere with your sleep cycle, but some light stretching can really relax your body and mind before you hit the hay.

Read a "real" book: We've all become accustomed to reading on tablets, but turning the pages of a good old-fashioned book or a text-only ereader can help get you the sleep you deserve. Turning off all tech in your bedroom helps with sleep, and (unfortunately) iPads are no exception to the rule.

No more nightcaps: Booze before bed may sound like a dreamy ritual, but it's actually hindering the quality of your sleep. Lay off the alcohol, and brew a mug of Sleepytime tea. You'll wake up feeling far fresher, and ready to embrace the day.

(source)