Here they come again, yep the holidays are coming, and fast! Many of us look forward to festive gatherings, indulgent meals, and time with family and friends. But for some, the holiday season brings stress, hectic schedules, and a tendency to let health routines slide.
So what can you do to prevent yourself from falling off track? Easy. You find balance. Balancing the desire for celebration with a focus on well-being can feel challenging, but with a little planning, it's entirely possible! Here are some practical ways to manage holiday stress and still focus on being your best, both inside and out!
1. Set Realistic Goals and Prioritize Self-Care
The key to staying healthy during the holiday season is setting realistic, flexible goals. Instead of aiming for personal records or a strict schedule, give yourself the freedom to adjust your expectations. Make self-care your priority. Even if you can’t get a full workout every day, prioritize smaller practices that’ll keep you feeling your best. Think quick stretch sessions, a 15-minute walk, or making sure to hit at least one WOD.
Try to schedule self-care time in your calendar as you would any other commitment. This ensures that it remains a non-negotiable part of your day, even if it’s just 10-15 minutes.
2. Make Exercise Fun and Social
The holidays are about connection, so why not combine social time with physical activity? Invite family and friends to join you for a walk, try a group class, or set up a family hike. Making exercise a social activity not only helps you stay active but also reinforces a sense of community and support. Both CrossFit Threefold thrives on!
Even if you’re traveling, there’s always a way to stay on track. Consider checking out local gyms or group classes in the area to experience something new together. Many communities offer fun holiday-themed fitness events, like charity runs or group workouts, which are both festive and energizing.
3. Start Your Day with Movement
One of the simplest ways to prioritize fitness is to start your day with a bit of movement. This doesn’t have to be a full workout – even a short stretch or 10-minute yoga routine can help you feel refreshed and centered before diving into the day’s activities.
When you exercise in the morning, you’re more likely to stay on track and avoid the temptation to skip it as the day fills up. Plus, starting the day with movement releases endorphins, boosting your mood and setting a positive tone for the day.
4. Focus on Quality Sleep
Sleep, sleep, sleep. We’ve talked about the importance of getting quality sleep before and during the holidays it’s no different. Actually it might be even more important! Whether it’s from late-night celebrations or increased stress, sleep is often sacrificed. But don’t fall victim to it, because getting quality sleep is crucial to managing stress, keeping energy levels up and making healthy choices. Aim to establish a consistent bedtime routine, avoid too much caffeine, and limit screen time before bed.
Try winding down with relaxing activities, such as reading or meditation. If holiday stress keeps you up, consider journaling or using a breathing exercise to help calm your mind.
5. Practice Mindful Eating and Stay Hydrated
Holiday gatherings often come with tempting foods and rich treats. Mindful eating can help you enjoy holiday meals without overindulging. Before you start eating, take a moment to appreciate the food, its aroma, and the effort that went into preparing it. Aim to eat slowly and savor each bite.
This approach helps you listen to your body’s cues, so you know when you’re satisfied rather than overfull. And remember, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying seasonal treats – it’s all about balance!
And don’t forget to stay hydrated! Staying hydrated is crucial for both physical and mental well-being. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and even increased stress, so make it a point to keep a water bottle with you. Aim to drink a glass of water before each meal and carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day.
6. Don’t Skip Workouts – Modify Them
If holiday commitments make it difficult to get a full workout, aim for shorter, high-intensity sessions that fit into your schedule. Quick workouts like 20-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions or 15-minute bodyweight circuits can be just as effective as longer workouts and are easier to squeeze into a busy day.
Alternatively, find ways to incorporate more movement into your day: take the stairs, park farther away, or do bodyweight exercises at the office or home. Remember, consistency is more important than intensity during busy periods.
Embrace a Happy Healthy Holiday Mindset
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year to connect, celebrate, and create memories. Remember that staying healthy is about maintaining balance, not perfection. By keeping realistic goals, staying flexible, and prioritizing self-care, you’ll be able to manage holiday stress in a way that allows you to enjoy the season while feeling your best. Enjoy these precious moments, cherish your loved ones and celebrate the season while taking care of yourself.
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