ILDERTON and area Villager
How to Stay on Track over the Holidays “As we gear up for the holiday season, I want to remind you that this time should NOT be considered a ‘wash’ for your health and fitness goals,” explains Cheryl Patton of Positive Image Fitness (positiveimagefitness.ca). “In fact, the holiday season is one of the most imperative times of the year to double down on your health goals. The average North American gains between one to three pounds between the months of November and January. While you might be thinking, ‘this isn’t a big deal, one to three pounds doesn’t seem like a lot for most people’, the problem lies in the repeatability of it every year, often accompanied by a ‘screw it, it’s the holidays’ mentality while seemingly suspending their health and fitness goals, in hopes that they’ll start again in January. And while I support a good New Year, New You reso- lution, the truth is, if you truly want to make lasting change, your mindset must remain consistent no matter what month it is. Don’t get me wrong, I am NOT trying to be grinch before the holidays even start, but I have worked with too many people who feel the regret of adopting this mentality every year. While I believe it’s important to relax and enjoy good food with family and friends around the holidays, I believe there is a healthier way to do it.” Cheryl’s top tips for staying on track over the holidays include: “ Choose Progress, not perfection: The holidays are hectic, and you won’t be perfect. Don’t worry about being 100% on your A-game – it’s an unrealistic ask. Instead of aiming for perfection, aim for consistent actions will keep you moving forward without all the pressure. Schedule your workouts: If it’s on your calendar, it’s a priority. And when workouts are a priority, consistency follows. Even if it’s just 20 minutes, that effort matters. Don’t worry about getting your BEST workout in, just do SOMETHING and that something will be enough! No food or meal should elicit a ‘wash’ of a day: You know when you eat something ‘bad’ and decide your whole day is ruined as a result? Don’t do that; your body doesn’t work that way. A single meal or food doesn’t define your progress; you’ve still got a whole day to make choices that support your goals. Keep in mind that every healthy choice adds up, even if you’re enjoying holiday foods. Stock Up on Healthy, High- Protein Treats : Keep your home a space that supports your goals. When you have nutritious, satisfying options on hand, like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or even your favorite healthy protein bars, it’s easier to make choices that align with how you want to feel. If you “go crazy”, enjoy it--it’s not the end of the world: Enjoying yourself this holiday season really matters. I think everyone should be able to enjoy good food and yummy desserts, GUILT FREE. But thoughtfulness and self-restraint are two very important life skills that I believe many of us should/could benefit from developing. These skills empower you to lead your life, not just experience it. If you happen to overindulge at any point this season, know that IT IS OKAY.” “All in all, I hope you enjoy this festive season with balance and joy,” Cheryl continues. “Remember, it’s about making choices that feel good and are good for YOU. If you’d like a little extra support this season, you can apply to work with me 1:1 or join my small group training classes. My online and in-person coaching program is designed to educate, empower, guide and support you through your health journey-- whatever that is.”
Boys and Girls Club London launches Rural Hubs by Whitney Brown BGC London – Rural Hubs has launched the Life Skills Academy, a hands-on program empowering rural children and youth with essential life skills. Rooted in BGC London’s commitment to personal growth and community connection, Life Skills Academy blends practical learning with creativity, leadership, STEM, and enrichment activities. Operating in Ilderton, Dorchester, and Thorndale, the Academy ensures rural families have access to high-quality, inclusive programming close to home. By removing barriers and fostering safe, welcoming spaces, it helps youth build confidence, cur- iosity, and resilience.
More than just a program, the Life Skills Academy is a launch- pad for lifelong success where rural youth connect, grow, and prepare for the future. One LifeSkills Academy program for example, is a pre-driving course for ages 15 to 18 that teaches driving safety skills including how to avoid distracted driving. Another, the ‘Comic Creators’ class teaches kids aged 8 to 12 how to create their own comic strips – a fun way to build literacy and artistic expression.
Visit bgclondon.ca/rural or find BGCLondonRural on Facebook for event (including PA Day programs) and program details.
Page 8 Ilderton and Area Villager • December 2025
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