Summer holidays are here- sunshine, freedom, fun and a well-earned rest. But, for many of us, holidays can come loaded with guilt, anxiety, and a detrimental pattern that can take the joy away.

It usually goes something like this: In a quest for our ‘beach body’ we slash calories and push harder in the gym. Then, the moment we land, the pendulum swings the other way- unlimited buffets, cocktails by the pool, only moving to switch from tanning our fronts to our backs.

This all-or-nothing cycle is why you’re stuck. Holidays should be enjoyed but the problem is in extreme thinking that frames food and exercise as either perfect or pointless.

A holiday won’t undo months of consistent effort. But swinging between restriction and excess can affect how you feel.

Instead, before you go away, don’t starve yourself into your summer clothes. Stick to your usual healthy habits so your will power isn’t at rock bottom when you get to the airport.

Then, when you’re away, take some good habits with you. Stay active in ways that you enjoy. Eat the ice-cream but also eat the salad. Find balance.

Balance allows you to enjoy a bit of what you fancy every day.

So, quit the cycle and return from your holiday feeling great and not like you need yet another diet.

By Lindsay Montgomery, Nutritionist & Personal Trainer