It’s the most wonderful – and often stressful – time of year!
The holiday season is a whirlwind of activity – shopping, cooking, traveling, parties, and countless obligations. So, it’s easy for exercise to fall by the wayside in the hustle and bustle.
But now is actually one of the most important times to prioritize your mental wellness, and starting a movement practice can make all the difference.
Manage Stress and Anxiety
The holidays can filled with joy and merriment, but they can also bring stress. Aerobic exercise, like walking or running, is a proven stress reliever. It helps reduce cortisol levels (your body’s stress hormone) while increasing serotonin and other mood-boosting chemicals in the brain.
Even a short session can leave you feeling calmer and more centered, helping you navigate holiday stress with ease.
Boost Energy and Break Out of a Rut
This may sound counterintuitive, but physical activity can increase your energy levels. Aerobic exercise stimulates blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout your body, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
If the holiday grind has you feeling stuck or in a rut, a quick walk or run can shake things up, boost your mood, and provide the energy you need to tackle your to-do list.
A Good Excuse to Take a Break or Get Outside
Finding a moment for yourself between busy schedules and endless obligations can feel impossible. A quick 20-minute walk or run is not just exercise – it’s self-care. It gives you time to clear your mind, recharge, and even soak up some fresh air.
Whether you stroll through a snowy park or a brisk jog around the neighborhood, this small break can work wonders for your well-being.
Combat Seasonal Affective Disorder
For many, the shorter days and colder weather of the holiday season can lead to feelings of sadness or symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Aerobic exercise is a powerful tool for managing these symptoms.
Regular movement increases endorphins, boosts energy, and can help stabilize your mood, providing a natural counterbalance to the winter blues.
Don’t Use Exercise to “Burn Off” Holiday Treats
It can be tempting to think of exercise as a way to compensate for indulging in holiday treats, but this mindset can turn movement into a punishment rather than a source of joy.
Associating exercise with guilt or food can lead to an unhealthy relationship with both, making it harder to sustain a movement practice long-term.
Instead, focus on the many other benefits of exercise – boosting your mood, managing stress, and increasing energy. By reframing exercise as something you get to do rather than something you have to do, you’ll cultivate a healthier and more enjoyable approach to movement.
You Don’t Have to Wait Until January
By now, you might be thinking, “This sounds great, but I’ll wait until after the holidays – maybe even make it my New Year’s resolution.”
But here’s the thing: New Year’s resolutions often fail because they rely on a burst of motivation that fades quickly. Instead of putting off feeling better, why not start today?
One of the most powerful lessons to remember is that motivation follows action. Not the other way around. Taking even small steps now can build momentum and help you create a habit that lasts well beyond the holidays.
For help getting started, try the Strideful app.
Choose from 18 walking and running plans that fit your interests and busy schedule. Track your mood before and after your activities to see how movement impacts your mental well-being.
Download the Strideful app and start your 7-day free trial today.
