With all the shopping, cooking, family visits and gatherings, it can sometimes be a challenge to keep up with your health and wellness goals during the holiday season. Luckily, the Y is here to help everyone feel their best – even when life gets busy.
Here's a list of tips to help you continue on your wellness journey over the holidays.
-
WALKING
This is one of the easiest ways to build fitness into your every day. Not only does it get your heart and other muscles working in a low impact way but being active (outdoors when we can this time of year) is a proven stress reliever. Walk with friends and family or try a walking meditation to clear your head when life gets busy. -
WATER
Staying hydrated helps keep you running efficiently. If you don’t like the taste of water, try adding flavor (lemon and other citrus) or an herbal teabag for a touch of flavor. -
WARMUP
Did your active siblings challenge you to try Pickleball? Have a grandparent who is raring to race with you? Avoid injuries by warming up before any vigorous exercise. Do dynamic stretches (where you keep moving through the stretch) beforehand and static stretches (where you hold a stretch for a few seconds) afterwards. -
WORKOUT EASE IN
It’s easy to get discouraged when you get off your routine and feel like you aren’t seeing results. If you’ve missed a couple days (weeks), it’s best to start back small, with a daily walk, and gradually increase, adding cardio and strength training. This helps re-establish healthy, long-term habits while giving yourself time to feel the benefits. -
“WHAT ABOUT THIS INSTEAD?"
It can be hard to go “cold turkey” (especially around holidays!); so instead, try to replacing your typical routine with something else that still keeps you active. You’re more likely to keep up with your habits if you’re doing something that you enjoy.