The holiday season is a time for celebration, connection, and relaxation—but it can also lead to inactivity when usual routines get interrupted by family, friends and festivities. However, keeping active doesn’t have to be strenuous or time-consuming to make a positive impact on your health and well-being. Here are some practical ways to keep moving this festive season.
1. Embrace the Little Things
Physical activity doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym or going for long runs. Everyday movements count, too. Here are a few
Housework hustle: Tidying up for guests? Turn it into a mini workout by moving briskly and getting puffed
Short walks: A stroll around your neighborhood to admire the Christmas lights can be a joyful and low-impact way to move.
2. Make It Social
Staying active is easier when it’s fun and shared. Invite loved ones to join you in activities, such as:
A family walk after Christmas dinner.
A dance session to your favourite music.
Simple stretches or yoga with a friend.
3. Listen to Your Body
If you live with physical limitations, pain, or low energy, honor your body’s needs. Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t. Options might include:
Chair exercises: Gentle movements like seated leg lifts, arm circles, or light weights can build strength and improve circulation.
Stretching: Simple stretches improve flexibility and relieve tension, and they’re easy to do anywhere.
Breathing exercises: Deep breathing paired with light movements, such as arm lifts, can calm the mind and energize the body.
4. Use the Time You Have
It’s easy to feel like you need a big block of time to “count” as exercise, but even a few minutes make a difference. Break movement into manageable chunks:
Try 5-10 minutes of gentle activity two or three times a day.
Stand and stretch during TV commercials or between wrapping presents.
Take advantage of short errands, like walking to the mailbox or carrying groceries.
5. Keep It Fun and Festive
Physical activity doesn’t need to feel like a chore. Add some holiday flair to your routine:
Put on your favorite Christmas tunes and move to the music, whether it’s dancing, stretching, or simply swaying.
Try playful activities, like a water fight or backyard cricket, bowls etc
Enjoy seasonal tasks, like baking, which involves mixing, reaching, and standing.
6. Focus on the Benefits
Remind yourself that every little bit of movement contributes to your well-being. Staying active can:
Boost your mood and reduce stress, especially important during the busy holiday season.
Improve circulation and energy, helping you feel more alert.
7. Plan Ahead
If the holidays tend to disrupt your usual routine, plan for small, achievable goals:
Schedule a time for a short walk or light stretching each day.
Set out comfortable clothes and shoes to make activity more inviting.
Ask a family member to join you, creating accountability and support.
8. Be Kind to Yourself
Finally, remember that any movement is better than none. If you can’t do much, that’s okay. Celebrate what you can do and focus on enjoying the season in a way that feels good to you.
By making small, intentional choices to stay active, you’ll support your body and mind while fully embracing the joys of Christmas. Stay gentle, stay positive, and keep moving in ways that work for you!