We all know the holiday whirlwind is just around the corner. Events are stacking up. Family obligations, parties, shopping and of course tempting food make it all too easy to let healthy habits fall to the wayside.
As an often-frazzled mom, I’m chauffeuring kids, making meals, running errands and countless things for my family everyday. But how often do I take time to do something nice for myself? I consider running, working out and eating decently, nice things. I honestly feel more energetic and clear headed when I get a workout in. But as far as pampering, like a massage or mani/pedi? I can’t remember the last time. My bad.
Today I’m collaborating with a bunch fellow bloggers, sharing tips for maintaining health and fitness priorities when things get crazy:
Sign up for a race. Better yet, make it a destination race with girlfriends! Something that will keep you getting out there and training through the holidays. We all know running is a great stress reliever and what better time for that than now? For an extra special treat, add in a spa day.
This blast from the past at the Carlsbad Marathon in January required some training through the holidays. Good times!
Have a go-to ‘no time to workout’ workout. Face it time is at a premium. There will be a day (or days) when your regularly scheduled workout just doesn’t happen. Instead of waving the white flag though, go to plan B. Maybe it’s a simple stretching routine, getting out for a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute plank sequence.
Be mindful. While the holidays are not the time to deprive yourself, you don’t have to go overboard either. If you know you’re going to splurge at a party later, make sure to balance it out with a vigorous workout. Make healthy ingredient swaps and offer to bring a dish to the gathering.
Hydrate! This one is simple enough, but I still struggle with getting in enough water every day. Hydration is an especially effective tool to help reduce cravings.
Don’t skimp on sleep. Easier said than done at this time of year, I know.
Be social. Host and attend parties to visit with family and friends, not babysit the buffet. Don’t hold court near the food but rather work the room, play with the kids and move!
Don’t be afraid to say No. As much as we’d like to do everything, it’s not in anyone’s best interest. Pick the things that have value to you and leave the rest for another time.
How do you take care of yourself through the hectic holiday season?
it has been over two years since my last massage and i have been wanting one.
as a teacher, i have a week and a half off over the holidays and it’d be so nice to pamper myself!! (something i don’t normally do due to $$)
I make sure to eat healthy snacks so I don’t overeat at parties, say no to some invitations to make sure I am not burned out and exercise!
I am in desperate need of a massage after all of this marathon training.
I shared on Twitter/FB and will post on my blog tomorrow, too 🙂 (Read: pick me!! ha haha)
my child is 7
I havent had a massage in 8 years 😉
I always make time for myself to workout because I feel my best when I do. But to actually go for a nice massage or mani/pedi would be a wonderful treat.
Would love to have a spa day as I’ve never treated myself to one!
I am in desperate need of a massage. I am getting ready to do back to back halfs and my legs probably would enjoy it!
I think a spa day sounds like a great way to survive the holidays! 😉
I try to keep up with my running. Signing up for holiday road races always helps keep me motivated!
I’m feeling just a little tight after all this fall running and could use a little massage spa time!
I am never, ever, ready for “that time of the year.” Can’t we stretch fall out a bit longer? But I do love your tips!
I want to win primarily because it would be a lot of fun to get a couple’s massage with my wife. She deserves it and I sure would enjoy a great massage!
Great tips – some times I do better than others about taking care of myself.
I’m sort of thinking that today should include a massage – hmmm…
I’ve actually never had a massage before! So trying one would be good.
I like to take “me” days. I take off time from work, drop off the kiddo at day care and treat myself to lunch or what have you. I might run a few errands but it’s all on my time and around what I want to do!
We definitely like to sign up for races! We have one on Thanksgiving and we’ll be doing a few close to Christmas. We’re also staying home for Christmas this year, so less stress for us!
Oh hey, it’s me! And Tara. And YOU!! 🙂
drink lots of water, get enough sleep
I usually have a race planned for the Spring so it keeps me motivated through the holidays.
Oh, having a plan B is a good one! I really need to add that on my plan. Everyone should have a contingency plan. 🙂
During the Holiday Season I run to keep myself sane and my waistline in check, haha.
I make sure to keep my exercise no matter what & I basically eat the same all year round..
I try to take things one step at a time so that I don’t get bogged down!
I keep things simple at holiday time. Meals in crockpots (even turkey day!) to overnight breakfasts for the Christmas day.
Running and bi-weekly massages!
I workout daily and journal, but also remember my family is the most important thing and the reason behind the season besides the holy trinity.
Who doesn’t need a massage?
A massage is definitely needed as I am in the process of training!!
I love massages, and need another one soon. Running a half tomorrow, so will really need one!
The wife says I need to win this for her!