Get Your Body Moving this Holiday Season

It can feel impossible to stay active during the winter months when all you want to do is crawl under the blankets and stay warm. It can feel especially difficult during the holiday season. With all the parties and shopping throughout December, you may not feel like you have the time to go to the gym or to yoga class.

Staying active is not only good for your physical health but it can also be good for your mental health. There is a myriad of reasons why you should be keeping active and exercising. Make time for yourself this holiday season.

If you are working with a tight schedule, there are ways to “sneak in” a workout that isn’t time-consuming but will keep your body active. Even five minutes in the day can be all you need to get your body moving. You can even get the family involved and make it bonding time!

Health Reasons

Whenever you go to the doctor, they may ask you how active you are, because physical activity is important to your overall health. There are dozens of reasons why exercise keeps you physically and mentally fit, here are just a few:

Lower Risk of Heart Disease: Exercise can make your heart, which is a muscle, stronger. It can also lower your blood pressure and cholesterol which is great for your overall heart health.

Improved Glucose Control: When your body is active, it becomes more sensitive to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is involved in blood glucose control by telling the cells in your body to use blood sugar for energy. This will lower your blood glucose levels and can reduce your risk of developing diabetes.

Bone Health: Exercising, especially doing strength training, can increase your bone density. This can reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis as well as reduce your risk of fractures.

Mood Booster: Exercising releases the feel-good hormones, endorphins. It can also help to reduce anxiety through the release of norepinephrine.

Ways to Stay Active

It is recommended to participate in 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. This number may seem intimidating especially if you are someone who currently is doing zero, however it doesn’t have to be. There are many ways to exercise your body that are enjoyable and may not even feel like a workout. Here are some exercise ideas you may enjoy:

Yoga: Start your morning with a quick session of yoga. This is a great way to get the blood flowing and center yourself.

Walking: It may not always feel like exercise, but it is! Go for a walk after dinner with the family to get steps in and catch up.

Take Stairs: Skip the elevator or escalator at work and opt for the stairs to elevate your heart rate.

Lift Weights: While you’re watching television, grab a set of weights and start working out those arms and legs.

Finding something that you enjoy will make you more likely to do it!

Your Turn to Action: What is your favorite exercise? Let me know in the comments below.