How to fit exercise into your holiday schedule

​It’s only the first week of December, and already, the calendar is filling up with commitments and end-of-year tasks. You’re probably wondering how to fit in exercise, a writing session, and all the good stuff that comes around during the holidays. If you’re struggling to fit in me-time, you’re not alone. Don’t fret and beat yourself up over not getting a workout in. Count your steps and be kind to yourself. It’s a stressful time of year.
 
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 52% of Canadians feel anxiety, depression, and isolation during the holiday season. 
Given this information, it’s best to practice positive thinking and do what you can to ease the stress and protect your mental health.
 
If you’re looking for easy ways to exercise your mind and body, try these for a feel-good approach. 

Take a Walk with Friends

Socializing is important for our mental health and exercise is important for our physical health, so why not combine the two? Take a stroll with a friend. It will not only boost your energy but it will add positivity to your day, by being with someone you care about and your body is getting a low-impact exercise too.
Talking and sharing during this time of year is helpful. Even when we don’t feel social, it’s a healthy approach to well-being. 
According to Physiological Today, researchers are learning how social connectedness is impacting not only mental and emotional well-being but also physical health.
​www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/evidence-based-living/202411/use-the-holidays-to-promote-social-connection#:~:text=The%20data%20are%20clear%3A%20Loneliness,place%20to%20spend%20the%20holiday.

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Hit 10,000 Steps
Walking is a low-impact exercise with huge benefits. Studies have shown, that aiming for 10,000 steps reduces cardiovascular disease, anxiety, stroke, and certain cancers. 
Need to get your 10,000 steps a day? Park further from the mall and tread through stores, take the stairs, and schedule walks. Aiming for 10,000 steps is ideal to maintain your health. 

Short on time? 
You don’t have to spend an hour doing yoga. There are online classes you can do in under 20 minutes. If yoga isn’t your thing, try Pilates or stretching to ease tension and build strength and stability.  
My favourite online class is Fiton available on the APP store.  
A fifteen-minute brain break is good for you. It’s also enough time to do a workout. Yes, in just 15 minutes, you will burn calories and boost your mood. Of course, the level of exercise depends on your ability. 

Are you stuck with a list of chores to do?
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Adding resistance to your exercise or chore is a great way to build strength. Carrying laundry? Try doing a set of lunges. Making dinner? Do a set of squats in between. Stuck at your computer? Do push-ups and, or stretches to ease tension. 
Incorporating movement into your day adds up and if you remember to move your body during the day, you’ll get results.
 
Regardless of your fitness plans, making time to enjoy the little things such as wrapping gifts, baking treats, and singing Christmas music are all good ways to add positivity to your day. I hope this season brings you good health and joy.