As the year winds down and holiday celebrations ramp up, it’s important to keep fitness, nutrition and stress management in mind and find time to stay active. Winter festivities can tempt even those most dedicated to fitness into a pattern of inactivity.

To keep your body moving during the hustle and bustle of the holidays, you can:

• Register the whole family for a holiday-themed road race.
• Bring an exercise band when traveling and do simple bodyweight exercises to help increase energy and boost your immune system during cold and flu season.
• Give yourself the gift of wellness and join a new gym.
• Make a holiday playlist and have a dance party—it will get the blood flowing and may actually help you digest any holiday treats.

Remember, it’s not necessary to schedule a lot of time for physical activity. Studies have shown that spontaneous, short exercise sessions can be just as beneficial as long ones.

There are plenty of special holiday meals and traditional treats at this time of year, but loading up on these beloved foods may leave you feeling sluggish or unmotivated. To keep the holidays healthier, you can:

• Stick to your normal eating pattern, and do not skip meals. While it is tempting to overeat at holiday gatherings, indulge in breakroom treats or skip meals, it is best to maintain your usual routine. If you are traveling, especially by plane, remember that hydration is a key element of your overall health.
• To help ward off colds and the flu, eat foods that are high in nutrients like fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals. Apples are a great choice: They’re easy to pack, versatile and filled with essential nutrients. For a more filling snack, try dipping apple slices in nut butter or plain yogurt.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in to-do lists, travel plans and preparations around the holidays. If you take a moment to consider how you can be more intentional throughout each day, you may find that it helps make your holiday season more meaningful.

To practice mindfulness, you can:

• Slow down and focus on one small task at a time.
• Remember to take time to count your blessings.
• Be intentional at dinner by having a screen-free meal. Collect everyone’s devices before eating, and let them know how grateful you are for their company.

For more help curbing any holiday tension, try meditation or journaling.

Contact Strong4Life if you have questions about keeping your holiday season healthy.