How To Exercise For Self Care During The Holidays

The holidays can be a time for family, food, connection, joy, warmth, laughter, love. They can also be a time for grief, loneliness, stress and anxiety.

In case you need to hear this today: It's okay if exercise isn't your first priority right now. It's okay to move less, or differently, over the holidays, and always.

I know, that may sound counterintuitive coming from a Personal Trainer.

Aren't I supposed to be encouraging you to move your body?

This past year has helped me understand, more than ever, that there will be times in our lives when rest is the most important thing. Family. Meditation. Nature. Sleep. Showers. Quiet time. Whatever it is that you find helps you be slightly more grounded, do that.

And if exercise helps you manage your mental health right now, then great.

But if the idea of starting to workout (or continuing to workout) over the holidays makes your chest feel tight, then it may be best to let your movement routine fall to the wayside.

It's okay if exercise isn't your first priority right now.

Activity and movement aren't going anywhere, and they'll be waiting for you when you're ready to re-visit them at a later time. Take a big, slow breath in ...........and a slow exhale out..........

Remember that your worth does not fluctuate according to how often or how much you move your body. Routines change. Priorities change. Bodies change. People change. At some point in the new year, when (if) you're ready, you can revisit what type of movement you'd like to make part of your self care routine, and how much movement.

And I'll be here, ready to help, if you need it.

I hope that your holidays are well. I hope that you have a wonderful New Year celebration. And in case you don't, that's okay too. Whatever you do, be sure to stay curious.

-Johnena, The Self Care Trainer