Whether we realize it or not, every day we create, break and enforce habits. Changing habit loops in your brain can be simple or extremely difficult, depending on your experiences, your current stage of life and your environment. The holidays are an especially difficult time to maintain positive habits or break bad habits. Take exercise, for example. During the holidays, your workout routine can quickly fall to the bottom of your to-do-list. You may feel overwhelmed, too tired or simply not have enough time in the day. This holiday season, set yourself up for success and make time to move!
Regular exercise is not just good for our muscles and physical health, but is beneficial to our brain. It can boost our mood, improve our productivity, give us energy, improve sleep and reduce anxiety. Studies show that completing just 20 minutes of aerobic exercise can go a long way. So while you are spending the holiday giving gifts to all your loved ones, don’t forget to give yourself the gift of movement! See below for tips on how to stay motivated and create movement this holiday season.
Use these tips to help you stay motivated.
Schedule your movement! Schedule time on your calendar, just as you would schedule a meeting. And don’t miss this very important meeting.
Workout with a friend. Scheduling a workout with a friend can make you less likely to skip out on your workout! Having someone else keep you accountable will keep you on track.
Just show up. Before deciding, you do not feel like working out, get changed and stand on the treadmill (or whatever piece of equipment you plan to use) for just one minute. Sometimes the hardest fight you have with yourself is just showing up. Once you are there, you will be surprised by what you can accomplish.
Take a class. Taking a workout class can make you work harder than if you were to work out on your own.
Break up your cardio. Only have 10 minutes before work, 10 minutes at lunch and 10 minutes at after work? Not a problem. Studies say you can get the same benefits if you work out in smaller increments.
Tips to create movement in your daily routine:
• Make dance parties an after-dinner ritual.
• Increase your steps by parking a longer distance from your destination.
• Take the stairs, walk while you brush your teeth, or get up and take a lap around the house during the commercials of your favorite show.
• Play with your kids or take your pet for a walk.
• For every hour you sit at your desk, stand up for at least one minute.
• Catch up on your favorite show while you complete your cardio. Many television providers offer apps that allow you to stream shows and movies.