INTRODUCTION
The holiday season brings an array of beloved traditions, from decorating trees to festive feasting. However, these ceremonies often result in physical inactivity. Why not re-imagine these holiday traditions to include the benefits of activity? This article aims to guide you in blending to stay physically active with holiday traditions without losing an ounce of festivity.
A NEW LENS ON TRADITION
Traditions aren’t etched in stone; they can be modified to fit modern needs. Consider this an invitation to revisit your cherished customs through a new lens. Instead of purely sitting activities, think about adding a physical component. This small change can enrich your holiday experience while promoting a culture of wellbeing among your loved ones.
THE CHRISTMAS TREE SQUAT
Decking the halls doesn’t have to be an idle affair. For instance, the act of tree decorating can be turned into a mini-workout by incorporating squats. Each time you place an ornament on the tree, execute a squat. You’ll find that this playful twist engages your muscles and adds a layer of fun to the process.
COOKIE RUN – MAKING BAKING ACTIVE
Baking holiday cookies is a tradition in many households. Structure your baking session like a relay race to make it more active. Set up different mixing, rolling, and decorating stations—Sprint from one station to another to add a cardiovascular element to your baking fun.
CAROLING CARDIO
Carolling is a holiday mainstay, but who says it can’t be a form of activity, too? As you move from door to door, consider marching in place or incorporating some discreet high knees. This way, you turn a heartwarming tradition into a heart-pumping activity.
NEW YEAR’S COUNTDOWN CALISTHENICS
Instead of merely shouting “Happy New Year,” why not do so while breaking a sweat? As the countdown to midnight begins, perform a quick set of calisthenics. Imagine doing ten jumping jacks as you count down from 10, followed by nine squats, and so on. It’s a fun, spontaneous way to kick off the New Year healthily. In this way, you can stay physically active during these holiday traditions.
HANUKKAH HOPSCOTCH
During Hanukkah, consider playing a hopscotch game while integrating holiday elements. Mark hopscotch squares with Hanukkah-related symbols and say a blessing or sing a song as you hop through. Hanukkah hopscotch makes for a physically engaging yet culturally rich activity.
LIGHT-UP WALKS FOR DIWALI
Diwali, the festival of lights, is the perfect backdrop for a peaceful family walk. Create a path with diyas or lanterns and embark on an evening stroll, transforming it into a walking meditation that blends fitness with spiritual upliftment.
THANKSGIVING PARADE AT HOME
While watching the Thanksgiving parade is a popular tradition, why not create your own? Craft simple floats or banners and parade them around your home or yard. This requires walking, maybe some lifting, and dancing—making your celebration both traditional and active if you’re up for it.
EASTER EGG HUNT WITH HURDLES
The Easter egg hunt is already an active tradition, but you can elevate it. Add hurdles, small obstacles, or even yoga poses between egg-finding spots. This way, the hunt becomes not just a search for eggs but also a mini obstacle course, combining the excitement of discovery with physical effort.
CONCLUSION
The heart of any holiday lies in its traditions. But who says traditions can’t be healthy? Incorporating physical activity into your beloved holiday traditions brings a new layer of richness, health and wellbeing to your celebrations.