Tips to Keep You Moving Through the Holiday Hustle
A Happy Mindful Monday to you!
The holidays can be a magical time of year—but they also might disrupt your routines, making it hard to stay active. For women in midlife, staying active isn’t just about maintaining fitness; it’s about boosting energy, managing stress, and feeling your best.
Here are some simple, practical tips to help you keep moving while enjoying the season:
1. Plan Around Your Schedule
The holidays are packed with to-do lists, but you don’t have to choose between self-care and seasonal fun. Carve out short windows of time for movement—even 10 minutes counts! A quick 15-minute walk after dinner, parking farther away when shopping, or a short yoga session in the morning can help you stay consistent. You’ll feel less frazzled and more energized to tackle holiday tasks.
2. Make Movement Social
The holidays are about connection, so why not bring your loved ones along for the ride? Suggest a family hike, a walk to see holiday lights, or even host a holiday dance-off with friends. If you’re catching up with a friend, turn it into a “walk and talk” instead of meeting for coffee. Moving together not only keeps you active but strengthens your bonds with the people you care about most.
3. Focus on Fun Activities
This time of year is perfect for breaking out of your routine and enjoying seasonal activities. Try something new like ice skating or snowshoeing, or keep it simple with dancing around the kitchen while baking cookies. The key is to embrace activities that make you smile—you’ll stay active without it feeling like a chore.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
The holiday season can feel like you’re being pulled in every direction, which makes mindful movement essential. Gentle yoga, stretching, or even a few deep breaths paired with light exercises can help you unwind. This is especially important if you’re noticing increased stress or tension—it’s your body’s way of asking for a little extra TLC.
5. Use the 5-Minute Rule
We all have those days when motivation feels non-existent. The 5-minute rule is your secret weapon! Tell yourself you’ll do just five minutes of movement—whether it’s stretching, light cardio, or even cleaning with extra energy. Once you start, you’ll likely find the momentum to keep going. And if you don’t? You’ve still done something good for your body!
Remember: Staying active during the holidays doesn’t have to be perfect. Every little bit counts! Embrace the season, enjoy movement that feels good, and let activity enhance your holiday spirit.
Wishing you a vibrant and joyful holiday season,
Gnome-aste
Spring Hempsey, MA, CHC, CNC, RYT-200
Nutritionist and Health Coach for Women 40+
