Is your to do list a mile long this holiday season? Did you over-commit to extra parties, volunteering or events this season? It's okay. If you're struggling to find some time for yourself this holiday season - focus on committing to just thirty minutes to yourself each and every day. Remember, that half hour doesn't have to look the same every day. Because your bulleted list and your daily activities are going to look every day, too. Use these five suggestions to increase your movement this holiday season.

  1. Double your workouts. Aim for a longer gym session than you normally make time for. Or spread out your workouts throughout the day. Try a cardio workout followed by a full body strength session. You'll be a sweaty gal once you hit those weights. Or, do your own cardio session at the gym followed by a group fitness class. Get up early for a morning workout, followed by some relaxing, bedtime yoga. Figure out what works for you – and double-up the movement.
  2. Take a walk. Commit to walking after your large meals and gatherings. Movement helps reduce bloat and improves the digestion process. Bundle up by yourself or as a group and take a walk around the block or your neighborhood. You can enjoy that food-induced nap afterwards. And if walking isn't your preferred choice of movment - remember that thirty minutes of walking is absolutely better than doing nothing.
  3. Combine movement with conversation. Host a holiday gathering that involves movement versus more sitting around a table. Meet at a local climbing gym or enjoy a hike at one of your favorite, local spots. Movement can create all sorts of fun interactions and conversations. And you may create a new tradition in the preocess.
  4. Opt to move & hydrate instead. When you feel like snacking on those treats that are laying around or feel overwhelmed by the season, focus on drinking a glass of water and moving for ten minutes. If you do this a few times a day, your movement minutes will really stack up, you'll be better hydrated ... and you'll feel better mentally.
  5. Make it festive & fun. Make your movement fit the season: run to holiday music, find a holiday-themed workout on YouTube, walk around as a family and look at holiday lights, do yoga by your Christmas tree, run a holiday-themed 5K race, or attend a local candlelight hike. Make your movement part of the holiday season and your workouts will fit right into the season and the setting.