The holidays are a whirlwind of activity: family gatherings, last-minute shopping, indulgent meals, and late nights. While these moments can bring joy, they also can disrupt even our simplest routines. When our normal rhythms get thrown off, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or stressed. And let’s face it – those post-holiday weeks, when you’re trying to pick up the pieces, can feel like a “holiday hangover,” where you’re dazed and struggling to get back on track.
But here’s the good news: keeping even small pieces of your routine intact can make the holidays less chaotic and set you up to smoothly transition into the new year.
The key? Stay present, savor the season, and focus on consistency over perfection.
The Power of Tiny Routines
If you’re used to exercising, walking, meditating, or any other activity that keeps you grounded, the holidays don’t have to derail those habits. You don’t need to stick to your routine in its entirety – but just hold onto the habit.
For example:
- Make it smaller: If you usually take a 40-minute walk, just put on your shoes at the same time and stroll for five minutes. Keeping the action in your day, even if it’s tiny, reinforces the habit so you don’t lose momentum.
- Adapt it to your environment: Can’t hit the gym? Do a simplified version at home. A few bodyweight exercises or stretches can go a long way. It’s not about the intensity of the workout – it’s about staying connected to the routine.
- Include your family: Make movement part of your holiday tradition. For instance, after a big holiday meal, suggest a family walk to check out neighborhood lights. It’s a way to move, connect, and create new memories.
Staying Grounded When Family Stress Arises
Family gatherings can be a source of joy (and tension). Whether it’s differing opinions, old dynamics, or just the chaos of so many people in one space, staying grounded is essential.
- Step out for a breath: If you feel emotions rising, take a moment to leave the room. A few deep breaths can help reset your nervous system and bring you back to center.
- Focus on joy and connection: Remember why you’ve chosen to spend time with your family. Focus on what brings you closer – mutual interests, shared memories, or simple laughter. If certain topics, like politics, tend to strain relationships, consider agreeing to set them aside for the day. (Of course, if your family loves a good debate, like mine does, go for it!)
Clarify What the Holidays Mean to You
Take a moment to ask yourself: What do I want the holidays to feel like?
Maybe you’re craving magic, connection, or solitude for reflection. How does this match up with your family’s traditions and values?
Even small adjustments can help bring your vision to life:
- Want more laughter? Suggest playing a game or sharing favorite family stories.
- Need a little quiet? Step outside to watch the snow or lights for five minutes.
- Feeling overwhelmed? Add just 5% more of what you need, whether it’s time alone, a moment of mindfulness, or a tiny piece of your routine.
A Mind-Body Approach to Holiday Stress
The stress of the season doesn’t just affect your mind though. It can also impact your body, leading to flare-ups in pain or tension. This is where the connection between mind and body becomes so important.
If you notice your pain increasing or find it hard to navigate the complexities of the holidays, we’re here to help at MoveSmart.
Stress and pain are deeply linked, and we can work together to identify patterns, address triggers, and build strategies that allow you to enjoy the season more fully. Whether it’s finding new ways to cope with stress or staying active without overdoing it, our holistic approach can make a difference.
Book a session today to explore how you can move through the holidays & get back into things after them with ease and set yourself up for a brighter new year.
From all of us at MoveSmart, happy holidays!
