Managing rest days during the festive period can be beneficial for both mental and physical health. Taking a break allows for mental rejuvenation, reduces stress, and helps prevent injuries by allowing muscles to recover. During this time, it is important to focus on self-care and mental health by incorporating mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation. For those who prefer staying active, home exercises such as Pilates, yoga, or bodyweight workouts can be effective when gyms are closed.
Managing mental health during the festive period without exercising can be achieved through several strategies:
- Set realistic expectations: Accept that the holiday season doesn’t have to be perfect. Focus on creating meaningful moments within your means.
- Practice gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal or jar to remind yourself of positive experiences, which can reduce stress and improve mood.
- Prioritise self-care: Engage in activities that bring joy, such as reading or watching movies. Ensure you get enough sleep and maintain a balanced diet.
- Establish boundaries: Learn to say no to avoid overcommitment and stress.
- Connect with others: Reach out to friends or support networks if feeling isolated.
To maintain fitness during bank holidays, consider these effective home workouts:
15-minute holiday circuit:
Exercises: Squat jumps, Cossack squats, plank pike to toe reach, hand-release push-ups, leg raises, and boat pose.
Structure: 30 seconds per exercise with 10 seconds rest; repeat three times.
Busy Bee HIIT:
Exercises: Jumping jacks, bodyweight squats, push-ups, planks, mountain climbers.
Structure: 30 seconds each with 15 seconds rest; repeat three times.
Twelve Days of Fitness:
Follow the song’s structure for a progressive workout incorporating burpees, lunges, push-ups, and more.
Yoga Flow:
Include poses like Mountain Pose and Downward Dog to enhance flexibility and reduce stress.
These workouts require minimal space and no equipment, making them ideal for festive periods. Embracing these strategies can help maintain well-being while enjoying the holiday season.
A Personal Trainer is an investment in your health and well-being that can lead to long-term positive effects on your fitness, confidence, and overall health. PT Hale prides itself on being a social and safe space where you can work out individually, or with like-minded people to get the results that you want and deserve – LET’S GO!
