This very topic came up in one of my online groups the other day. In our busy crazy lives it can be hard to make exercise a priority especially as we head into the holiday season. We make shopping, baking, decorating and entertaining a priority yet at the same time we easily put our fitness on the back burner. We make ourselves feel better by saying it's okay, we'll start January 2. Why is not okay to make YOU a priority? This is about your health, your energy, you happiness!!!!
Just yesterday my very good friend shared with me that she was ready to take back her health, to start eating healthy, to start exercising . . . . starting Jan 2. Why wait to feel better? If you are ready NOW why would you wait over a month to start? Why would you not want to start feeling better now?!
The most stressful time of the year is upon us and exercise is one of the best stress reducers. So what can you do to start making fitness a priority? It's really about making YOU a priority and making exercise a habit EVEN during the holiday season! It starts with a choice and some tips.
1. Workout early in the day. Getting your workout done in the morning lessens the chance of you missing that workout. Commit to getting up 30 minutes earlier, lay out your workout clothes the night before, and set your alarm across the room so you have to get out of bed. The first few mornings will be hard. Your bed will feel warm and cozy, it's cold outside BUT you will feel such accomplishment, it will set a positive tone to your day! Trust me, saying you will exercise later in the day often means you WON'T. Things pop up during the day that just get in the way of exercise especially during this time of year!
2. Working out doesn't have to take a long time. All you need is 30 minutes. Studies have shown shorter workouts are actually more effective because we tend to be more focused for 30 minutes and give it our all as opposed to holding back during a 60 minute workout. We all can find 30 minutes in our day . . . it's about making that choice. :)
3. Get out your calendar and schedule your workouts. Treat that workout just like an important appointment that you CAN'T miss!
4. Buddy up! Get your friend or significant other to join you. It makes if more fun and it's added accountability! If they don't want to join you, at least tell them what you are doing and ask for their support!
It's easy to keep putting everything and everyone else before you BUT it's also okay to choose you! It's just a minor shift of your priorities that in the long run will make you a better parent, spouse and friend. You are still going to do all the crazy holiday stuff and events but will feel so much better because you choose YOU for a little bit of time each day! :) The bottom line is exercise will give you happiness, energy, confidence, lessen your aches and pains, improve your health and at this crazy time of year reduce your stress! You have to want it and choose it to make it a priority!
I have a new online fitness support and accountability group starting Monday November 30 and we are going to help keep each other on track with our fitness and nutrition right through the holiday season. It's a great way to help you make exercise a priority and start taking care of you. I will share lots of simple, healthy recipes and meal plans and tips to help you navigate through this holiday season successfully and with less stress. If you are interested in learning more email my at marciadeangelis@sbcglobal.net, or connect with my on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/marciadriscolldeangelis
Together we can be more successful than alone. Don't wait until Jan 1! :)
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Thank you very much for the useful information, Marcia! Unfortunately this is why there are so many overweight and sad people. We are just bad at setting our priorities straight. Whether it is because our schedules are too busy or because we are just lazy, it is often challenging to include fitness in our schedule on a regular basis.
ReplyDeleteCatarina @ Wild Fitness