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We are entering a festive but hectic time of year. The holidays are fast approaching which brings time with family and loved ones and extra activities and obligations which can present a challenge to keeping your body feeling and moving well.
Our hectic holiday schedules often cut into our normal exercise routines, either simply because there are not enough hours in the day or because being on the road takes us out of our normal day-to-day routine. Traveling for long periods of time, whether in an airplane or a car, can leave you feeling stiffness, even pain, in your hips, back, and body from sitting stationary for hours on end. Holiday festivities and celebrations introduce new stimuli to which our body must adapt such as walking around a new city, standing for hours at a party, or moving and lifting heavy holiday decorations.
Whether you will be traveling, hosting guests in your home, or simply navigating the chaos of the season, you can keep your body primed and ready for whatever comes your way this year.
Here are 5 tips for keeping Egoscue – and healthy, balanced movement – a part of your holiday routine.
1. Make It a Group Activity
Ask family or friends to join in your Egoscue routine. Chances are, not only will it help keep you feeling and moving well, but the movement will benefit your loved ones, too. Even if others don’t want to join you, find some floor space to sneak in a few exercises while everyone is enjoying the morning coffee or unwinding in the evening.
2. Plan Ahead
If you are going to be traveling and won’t have access to your Egoscue equipment, remember that most equipment has a readily available household substitute.
- A chair can substitute for a large foam block
- A folded or rolled-up towel for a small foam block or roll
- And a belt for an exercise strap
Or plan ahead and ask your therapist for an equipment-free menu that you can use when traveling.
3. Embrace Short Routines
Split your exercise routine up in bite-size chunks that you can do throughout the day. Divide your current menu into 3 parts and set aside 10-15 minutes three times throughout the day to get it done. Or ask your therapist for a few short menus that you can use when time is tight.
4. Focus on the Exercises You Love
We all have those exercises that we find extra productive or always leave us feeling great. If you find yourself struggling to find the time or motivation to do any of your Egoscue routines, create your own mini-menu out of your favorite 2-3 exercises. Yes, the sequence of your menu is very important, and this won’t work well as a permanent solution, but focusing on the exercises that give you a little extra bang for your buck is a great way to reignite your motivation. If you take this approach, make sure you share these favorites (and how they helped you) with your therapist at your next visit.
5. Find the Time for a Reset
Yes, your menu is designed to keep you feeling good physically, but our mental and physical well-being are closely linked and your Egoscue menu can double as a mental reset. Be present with yourself, get in touch with your breathing and how your body is feeling, and give your mind and emotions a chance to relax. Not only will your body thank you for finding the time for your menu, but you will likely notice you are more present for the moments that really matter with those you care about.
We hope these simple tips make it a little easier to sustain the habits that keep you healthy and happy this holiday season. And remember, you aren’t alone. With the added stress and changing stimulus of the holidays, it is not uncommon for your body to need a new routine to stay balanced and functioning at its best. If something unexpected comes up, don’t hesitate to reach out to your therapist for help.
