“He who has health, has hope; and he who has hope, has everything.” - Arabian Proverb

Introduction:

The holiday season often brings joy, celebration, and indulgence in delicious treats. However, it can also disrupt regular exercise routines and lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. Embracing physical activity during this festive period is not only beneficial for your physical health but also contributes to your overall well-being. Here are some tips to help you stay active and maintain a healthy balance throughout the holiday season.

Check out our 7 reasons to maintain your physical activity levels and well-being during the holiday: 💪

1. Set Realistic Goals

During the holidays, it's crucial to set achievable fitness goals. As you add more items to your to-do list, it is easy to lose sight of your health goals in the holiday madness. We suggest adjusting your expectations considering the festive schedule, potential travel plans, or family gatherings. Aim for consistency rather than perfection in your workouts. Even short bursts of exercise can make a difference. Setting small, attainable goals will help you stay motivated.

The festive schedule does not always work around your goals. Focusing on attainable goals for yourself will bring you wins throughout the holiday parties, family time, and events. Even little accomplishments are still a win.

You may need to fluctuate your goals to compromise with the last minute surprises. But we know you can do it!

2. Prioritize Physical Activity

Make physical activity a priority by scheduling it into your day. If you feel like you will lose sight of your physical activity goals throughout the day, you may want to prioritize to begin your day exercising. Block out time for a workout session or a brisk walk. It is a great idea to involve family and friends by planning active outings like hiking, ice skating, or playing sports together. This not only encourages bonding but also ensures you are staying active while enjoying the holiday spirit.

Try to complete at least one activity each day while enjoying your festive, holiday season.

3. Be Creative with Workouts

The holiday season might disrupt your usual exercise routine. You may need to pivot from your normal workout plan to embracing a holiday session. Trying new activities can be beneficial during the holidays as you utilize different community resources as the holiday schedules interrupt your normal hours of business.

Consider home workouts, yoga, dance sessions, or utilizing workout apps for quick exercises. Incorporate activities that accommodate limited space and time constraints, allowing you to stay consistent.

Improvise by inviting friends and family to spend quality time with you while continuing your health journey. Share with them what you enjoy and try it out together. You both can motivate each other.

4. Utilize Holiday Activities

Engage in holiday chores and activities as opportunities for physical movement. Decorating the house, cleaning, or even shopping can involve walking and movement. Opt for taking stairs instead of elevators and parking farther away when shopping to increase your daily step count. The festive, holiday season brings in different events and family traditions to enjoy. Most of the time, you are being active without even realizing it. While yes, holiday activities may be different than your regular workout routine, they still keep your body and mind active.

Check out the holiday events in your area:

• Caroling

• Pick out and cutting down the perfect tree

• Ice skating

• Going to a parade

• Having a snowball fight

5. Stay Mindful of Nutrition

While physical activity is essential, maintaining a balanced diet is equally crucial. Enjoy holiday treats in moderation and focus on nutritious meals to support your energy levels. Choose healthier options whenever possible, and stay hydrated to support your body during increased activity.

If you are worried about your self-discipline when you are about holiday treats, ask someone to be your accountability partner throughout the holiday season. You are not alone. The key is moderation, meaning you are more than likely to enjoy some treats, just don't go overboard.* If you already know that you should not eat any of the food or unsure if you will be able to consume the festivities food, making your own dishes and bringing them to share is often a great solution to avoid enticing yourself.

6. Plan Active Celebrations

Plan gatherings and activities that incorporate movement. Organize group workouts, walks, or fun fitness challenges. Consider volunteering for charitable events that involve physical activity, like charity runs or walks, combining social engagement with exercise.

Planning the gatherings yourself for others is such a great feeling of accomplishment and enjoyment. You will be the reason that others get out and about as well as bringing the community together. New friendships will form. An aura will extend past those who join the group activities as physical activity improves attitudes and welcomes joy.

7. Practice Self-Compassion

Remember that the holidays are also about enjoying and relaxing. If you miss a workout or indulge in festive treats, don't be too hard on yourself. Embrace self-compassion and understand that it's okay to deviate from your routine occasionally. The key is to maintain a balance and get back on track when possible.

Talk to yourself positively. Be kind with the words you speak to yourself. It's okay if you mess up, you are only human. You got this. We believe in you.

Conclusion

Embracing physical activity during the holiday season is a wonderful way to maintain a healthy lifestyle while celebrating and enjoying the festivities. By setting realistic goals, being creative with workouts, prioritizing movement, and incorporating physical activities into your celebrations, you can stay active and make the most of this joyful time without compromising your health and well-being. Strike a balance between indulgence and maintaining an active lifestyle to ensure a happy and healthy holiday season.

We welcome you to reach out to us if you need any ideas or accountability partners during the holiday season. 💙

*Disclaimer: We do not diagnose, prescribe, treat, or cure medical conditions. This article is for educational purposes only. If you are in need of immediate medical attention, please call 9-1-1. For non-urgent medical matters, please visit your primary doctor.

Holiday Activities

Here is some holiday activities to keep you active and motivating you on your health journey:

• Volunteer to be in the parade

• Caroling through your neighborhood

• Sightseeing holiday lights: walk around the neighborhood instead of driving

• Make snow angels

• Have a snowball fight

• Play football with your family

• Go ice skating

• Go for a hike or walk

• Set up holiday events or work events