How to work out during the holidays
Are you wondering how you can work out during the holidays, or maybe even “should I work out over the holidays”?
The short answer is yes. The longer answer is yes, we should stay physically active during a busy holiday season because physical activity is key to our mental and physical health. How to fit in a workout? Well, what “physical activity” looks like to everyone is different, so that is where I’d suggest you start. What does physical activity look like to you? Is it the gym, a walk, a swim? Whatever the case, spend a moment thinking about what you need it to look like. That way, you’ll have a better idea of how to fit that in.
Second, this time of year, there is often a collective throwing-in-the-towel moment where all movement bets are off until the New Year. So that’s your possible next step. Surround yourself, or connect yourself with people who also value movement. They'll get it and they’ll support you. And if there are folks in your life that don’t “get it”, prepare a script to help you kindly respond to those who aren’t as supportive. Perhaps, “working out really helps me better manage my stress and stay healthy during this hectic time. It’s really important to me”
And finally, if you are feeling like your movement practice is falling off your calendar, please don't fully put off your movement goals until January 1st.
I understand why folks make New Year's resolutions. It is a time of fresh starts and new beginnings. I get that.
AND, what about another point of view? Putting off something as important as movement/fitness/exercise (whatever term you use) can significantly impact our physical and mental health.
Waiting until January 1st (or some other random day) is often giving us permission to overindulge. And a note, I said OVERindulge, not just indulge....seriously it's the holidays, eat the dang Christmas cookie! But when we feel like there is a deadline looming, it can impact our behaviours and shift us into a scarcity mindset. That fear-based mindset can lead us down a path of things that do not support our health.
Can I suggest some alternatives to this “either-or” mindset?
Find the middle ground. Go for a “both-and” mindset with things such as:
—Hike with a friend before you go for dinner.
—Make your get-togethers a bit more active.
—Add in some fun to the team get together. Why not bowling, or axe throwing?
—Support a local business and try a new fitness class (you’re more likely to do it if you’ve committed to a time anyway!)
I truly believe that anything that is worth doing, is worth doing NOW. AND YOU are worth it. Please don’t delay prioritizing your health.
What are your favourite ways to fit in movement during busy times?
Keep moving everyone! And Happy Holidays!
-Deanna