Happy Holidays!!

That's right!  Ready or not, the holidays are upon us!  In just a few days we will be sitting down to a feast with our families. 

The holidays can be overwhelming.  There is extra everything!  Extra stress, extra errands to run, extra parties, extra food.  How do you manage all of the extras without losing your mind?

Preparation.

The better prepared you are, the smoother the holidays will go.  Like Santa, make your list (make 10 lists) and check them twice.  Be sure to prioritize time to for self-care during this busy season.  Workouts, nutrient rich meals, and quiet downtime are all necessary to keep you happy and healthy through the holidays.  Don't be afraid to say "no" if you are spreading yourself too thin.  Self-care isn't selfish.  

In honor of Santa and his famous list, here is a list of ideas to help you prepare and manage stress this holiday season.

It may seem excessive, but the more you're able to plan in advance, the more details you're able to cover, the more you will feel like you have things under control.  Once you have things running relatively smoothly, allow yourself to unplug and be in the moment.  Don't let all the things that are still on your "To Do" list keep you from enjoying the present.

Regardless of how prepared you are, things will still go wrong.  Expect nothing and appreciate everything.  Take things as they come and don't let your desire for a picture perfect holiday get in the way of the perfectly imperfect reality.  

Fitting in a workout during this busy time of year can be a challenge.  Something is always better than nothing.  A short, intense sweat session can be just what you need to help manage stress, control weight and maintain muscle, and help you sleep like a baby.

Check out this 20 minute body weight workout to get you ready for turkey day!!!  Grab a friend or family member and get your sweat on while you're watching the parade, or waiting for that pie to bake!

Turkey 20

AMRAP (As Many Rounds As Possible) 

Push-up - 10 reps

Glute Bridges - 15 reps Double Leg/ 10 reps per side Single Leg

Mountain Climbers - 10 reps per side

Reverse Lunges - 10 reps per side

Squat Jump - 10 reps 

Set a timer for 20 minutes.  Complete as many rounds of the circuit as possible in the 20 minutes.  The goal is to move continuously, taking as few breaks as possible.  Pace yourself so that you aren't completely gassed after a few exercises. 

Record your results.

If you enjoy this workout, keep an eye out for this years holiday fitness challenge "Tinsel Twenty", starting December 1st! Twenty, 20 minute workouts to keep you moving throughout this busy season. 

More details to come!

Enjoy your Thanksgiving!