Well, friends, we are getting to in the thick of that time of year. The time of year when, at least if you live in a place like I do, the weather shoos you inside and the short days are less than motivating. Even thinking of working out during this season seems to cause more stress than it’s worth. So, let’s chat about strategies to take at least some of the stress out of working out during the holiday season.

Most of us tend to break in to one of two groups when it comes to exercise during the holidays: Those of us who try to perfectly toe the workout line and those of us who just say forget it, Imma have fun. In my experience those groups also define how we approach the holidays in general. Honestly, I have fallen into both categories at different points during my life. And, brutally honest, neither is ideal. Both ends of the continuum leave you feeling burnt out, tired, frazzled, and less than your physical best.

So, regardless of which side of the spectrum you fall on, first things first. Take a deep breath. Then examine your priorities. Yes, exercise is important. Yes, it helps us feel physically good. But the thing that both the I’m-going-to-be-perfect and the Imma-have-crazy-fun groups miss? Balance. So here are few methods I like to use to help keep me balanced, and working out, through the holidays.

Make exercise work for you. Sign up for a Turkey Trot if you are so inclined. Or include some other holiday exercise ritual. I know plenty of families that play touch football on Thanksgiving. In my family, a walk (weather permitting) is a fun past time. Plan your rest or lighter activity days to fall on the actual holidays or days when you might be traveling, cooking, or have other engagements. It’s natural to want to balance the heavy food with heavy exercise on the same day, but that has a tendency to result in the reliving of meals in reverse.

Unless you are training for something specific, try to relax workout routines a bit this time of year. No, I don’t mean skip the gym for days on end. But plan to change plans. I have my own method for doing this, but find something similar that fits your lifestyle. Figure out what your minimum needs are to keep your body feeling physically at its best and make that your priority. Anything else is just gravy (see what I did there?).

It is a stressful time of year, so treat exercise as a form of self care. A break not just for your physical body but for your mental health as well. It’s a time of high demand from lots of other places, so remember that your workout is your time. Listen to your body when it asks for a walk or yoga, and realize it is probably just what your mind needs too.

Remember that as long as you are staying consistent and moving regularly, one day of indulgence or one missed workout is not the end of the world. Your sneakers will still be waiting for you to lace up tomorrow.

And, most importantly, try to remember that this time of year is about so much more than our physical bodies. It is about being grateful for what we have and for sharing that gratitude with others. It is about spending quality non-screen time with our loved ones and creating memories. It is about taking some much needed time to create space for mental and spiritual wellness. It is about balance.

Until next time, be well, friends!