Staying Healthy and Active During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. Balancing family gatherings, shopping, cooking, and end-of-year deadlines often leaves little time for self-care, making this time of year particularly stressful.
At Malibu Moves, we believe in finding moments of wellness that work for you, without the pressure of perfection. Here are our top tips to help you stay grounded, healthy, and active during the holiday season.
1. Prioritize Rest and Recovery
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, sleep often takes a backseat. But prioritizing rest is one of the most important ways to support your physical and mental well-being.
Why It Matters: Sleep helps regulate stress levels and improves energy for all those holiday activities.
How to Do It: Set a consistent bedtime and create a calming evening routine, like reading or meditating, to wind down.
2. Embrace Mini-Movements
You don’t need a long workout to stay active. Short bursts of movement throughout the day can be just as beneficial.
Ideas:
Take a 10-minute walk after meals to clear your mind.
Turn gift-wrapping into a mini yoga session by stretching between tasks.
Involve family and friends in fun, active traditions like a holiday walk or dance party.
3. Say “No” When You Need To
Holiday commitments can feel overwhelming. It’s okay to decline invitations or ask for help when your plate feels full.
Practice Boundaries: If cooking for a big group feels daunting, suggest a potluck. If back-to-back events drain your energy, choose just one or two to attend.
Affirmation: "Taking care of myself allows me to show up fully for others."
“Affirmation: “Taking care of myself allows me to show up fully for others.”
4. Focus on Nourishment
Holiday meals are often a source of both joy and stress. Instead of thinking about what you “should” or “shouldn’t” eat, focus on adding foods that make you feel energized and satisfied.
Tip: Start with foods you love, and don’t forget to hydrate—water is your holiday hero!
Mindset Shift: Food is a way to celebrate and connect with loved ones. There’s no “perfect” way to enjoy it.
5. Create Space for Yourself
Amidst the noise of the season, carve out moments of stillness just for you.
How to Do It:
Step outside for fresh air, even if it’s just for five minutes.
Journal about what you’re grateful for this year.
Spend time doing a hobby that brings you joy, like reading, knitting, or listening to music.
6. Simplify Gift-Giving
Gift-giving doesn’t have to be stressful or extravagant. Focus on thoughtful gestures rather than expensive purchases.
Ideas:
Homemade gifts like baked goods or crafts.
Experiences, like planning a post-holiday hike or walk with a loved one.
Donations to a meaningful cause in someone’s name.
Can You Help Us Reach $35K for Charity?
We are on a mission to reach $35,000 goal for out charity partner the Malibu Education Foundation. Your support can make a real difference in the lives of over 1,000 students in Malibu public schools by donating here.
7. Join a Supportive Community
The holidays are a wonderful time to connect with others who share your goals and values.
Why It Matters: Sharing experiences with a community can ease feelings of isolation and boost motivation.
How to Do It: Participate in group runs, local walking meet-ups, or online wellness challenges.
TIP: Join our official training run clun, the LA Leggers. They offer pace groups for every level of runner and walker—from 18-minute-per-mile walkers to Boston Bound runners who finish marathons in under 4 hours. Membership for the 2024-25 season is now open, and they meet every Saturday in Santa Monica. Click here to learn more.
8. Reflect and Reset
As the year comes to an end, take time to reflect on what brought you joy and what you’d like to carry into the new year.
Reflection Prompts:
What moments made me feel most fulfilled this year?
How can I create more space for those experiences in 2025?
Celebrate Yourself: Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small it feels.
Why Malibu Moves?
At Malibu Moves, we’re here to support your journey, no matter where you are or how you move. Whether you’re looking for motivation to stay active during the holidays or setting goals for the new year, we’d love to be part of your story.
The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Focus on what matters most—connection, self-care, and finding joy in small moments.
Ready to take the first step into a healthier, more connected 2025? Join us for Malibu Moves and secure your spot today: Sign Up Now.
