When the last leftover turkey sandwich has been gobbled, the gifts unwrapped and the itchy sweaters stowed away, the last thing we all want is for our lofty New Years’ resolutions to drag us into the coming year. How can we go from having a biscuit in one hand and a corn-on-the-cob in the other, to penning our goal to “hit the gym four times a week” with those very same hands?!
The best remedy for this is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and mindset regardless of the season. Now, that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy tasty, home-cooked meals during the holidays – it means that if we stay prepared, we won’t have to get prepared! Establishing healthy habits during the holiday season will make it much, MUCH easier to stick to them in the long-term. So, lend an ear to our friends at Virtua Health, who have compiled a few ideas for accessible, healthy activities after the holiday season.
Toss the Ball Around With the Family
We all have those cousins who are really, REALLY into watching sports (and you may well be that cousin!), but have you ever challenged them to a quick game? Next time you have a family gathering, have them put their money where their mouth is, and fire up a game of football, basketball, table tennis – whatever ignites the competitive spirit. Or, if it’s too cold to play outside, no worries! Boot up a console and start a game of Just Dance, break out the karaoke machine, or dust off your old Twister set and get to twistin’. The key here is to find opportunities to get up, move around, and break up a day of eating with some physical activity. Even better, you’ll be laughing, bonding, and creating lasting memories.
Bundle Up and Go for Wintery Walks
These snow boots are made for walkin’! It’s time to give those new mittens or fuzzy socks a test run, and go for a walk outside. Chances are, you’ll be in an area where there are lovely holiday decorations, which are much easier to appreciate on a walk than while driving. Or, you can take a detour from your normal routes and visit a frozen pond, or scout out the best place for some hot chocolate. Grab a friend or loved one, and go on a little excursion that will give you renewed appreciation for your surroundings.
Take a (Snowy) Hike
Why not kick it up a notch? Hikes are a wonderful pastime when plants are in bloom during the spring, but a hike in the snow can be truly breathtaking. If you happen to live near a snowy, wooded area, or if you’re willing to make the drive, this is definitely a must-try before winter ends.
Go Ice-Skating
There’s nothing that says “I’m making the best of the wintertime” more than lacing up your skating boots and hitting the ice-skating rink. There are likely options in your local area to do so, and it’s often under $15 per person. And, of course, there’s the ice-skating rink in Center City! You can enjoy your day on the ice surrounded by the gorgeous city architecture, and then grab a bite in the area – just be sure to enjoy your cheesesteak(s) in moderation!
Whatever your goals are for the New Year, make sure to keep healthy habits at the top of that list. Schedule an appointment today with a Virtua Health primary care provider, who can set you on the right track for all your annual screenings and exams!
Follow Philly’s B101
X | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | THREADS
Follow Virtua Health
X | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM
Related
Related
Related
