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Don't think of exercise as just one more thing on the holiday to-do list.
Find an activity to enjoy and set aside “me” time. Any activity that gets your heart
pumping will get those endorphins flowing and relieve holiday stress, but it’s best
to do what you love.
“You’re going to improve mood naturally with exercise, but by doing something you
enjoy you’ll have both physical and mental relaxation,” says Bryson Droz, a certified
trainer who holds a Kinesiology degree from the University of Kentucky.
“During winter, basketball is my relaxing habit. We have a gym and I go shoot for
an hour by myself, with my headphones on to clear my thoughts.”
Droz says the physical aspect of his workout is enhanced in a health club setting
with a social aspect.
“Other people are stressed during the winter time and people are not totally happy
with their body and wanting to make changes. It’s nice having that social aspect,
knowing you’re not the only one in that boat. You’ve got a whole slew of people
in there with you.”
Chasing children and cleaning vehicles will burn calories, but may not completely
alleviate stress. Choose an activity that's separate from the work you do all day
long.
Knowing that someone is waiting for you to show up at the gym or the park can
be a powerful incentive. Plus, research shows that healthy and supportive relationships
reduce stress.
Research shows that good tunes inspire more intense workouts. Because music has
an intense effect on the human body, it can also help ease muscle tension and lift
depression.
“Shopping, cards, presentation, everything holiday is irrelevant in the gym,” adds
the 24-year old Ohio native Droz. “Everyone is wearing sweats and t-shirts. You
can run into people you know here and you can talk about things other then what
stresses you out.”
If exercise just isn’t compensating for the added financial stress and time demands
of the holiday season these tips may help.
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During stress muscles contract. Bouts of physical activity release stored energy
and allow muscle groups to return to their normal resting potential.
Research finds that daytime exercise helps deepen shut-eye and helps people fall
asleep faster.
Exercise releases endorphins, adrenaline, serotonin, dopamines and burns stress
chemicals.
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Problem solve with people around you. Ask them to help you alleviate stress.
Meditate, or take a class in relaxation and stretching techniques –like Yoga.
Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages.
Rest. Try to get eight hours of sleep each day.
Get a massage.
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