Picture this: it’s 3 a.m., and you’re five eggnogs deep, passionately debating with Uncle Jim about whether Die Hard qualifies as a Christmas movie. The days are blending together, you’re eating Christmas leftovers for breakfast, and somehow you found yourself on a party bus… on a Tuesday night.
The holidays, with all their charm and chaos, tend to disrupt our usual routines. What starts as a much-needed break can quickly turn into a whirlwind of poor sleep, indulgent meals, and maybe a little too much celebrating.
And that’s okay—if you handle it right.
Why Holiday Habits Can Drain You
As much as we love to think that holiday vacation is the reset we need, it often has the opposite effect. Consider this:
- Irregular Sleep Patterns: Staying up late binge-watching shows or attending festive gatherings throws off your internal clock, leaving you groggy and tired.
- Uncontrolled Eating: Endless buffets of Christmas cookies and ham can make healthy choices feel like a distant memory.
- Overindulgence in Alcohol: Holiday cheer can lead to more drinks than usual, depleting your energy and hydration levels.
By the time the week is over, you might feel more drained than you did during your “normal” routine. And you’re not alone—many of our members have come into workouts this week feeling unusually tired and sore, thanks to the disruption in their routines.
It’s Okay to Indulge (Within Reason)
First things first: it’s okay to let loose and enjoy the holidays. If tequila on a Tuesday morning (no judgment!) is part of the fun, go for it. These moments are what make the season special.
But here’s the catch: don’t let a few days of indulgence undo all the small wins you’ve worked so hard to build throughout the year.
How to Stay on Track While Enjoying the Holidays
- Stick to Your Workouts
Even if your energy is lower than usual, showing up for your scheduled workouts is a win. It helps you maintain momentum and keeps the habit alive. - Find a Balance with Food
Enjoy the treats, but try to balance them with healthier options. For example, sneak in a salad between servings of Christmas ham or add a side of vegetables to your plate. - Prioritize Rest
A good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to recharge your body and mind. Try to maintain a semi-regular sleep schedule, even if the festivities keep you up late some nights. - Hydrate
With all the holiday cocktails and eggnog, it’s easy to forget about water. Keep a bottle nearby and stay hydrated to support your energy levels.
Keep the Bigger Picture in Mind
This week is a small part of your year. While it’s okay to relax and enjoy, don’t let it derail the habits you’ve built. The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to maintain balance.
When the holiday haze clears, you’ll thank yourself for sticking with your workouts, making mindful food choices, and prioritizing rest where you could.
So go ahead: enjoy your holiday, celebrate with loved ones, and indulge in the fun. Just remember to keep one eye on your long-term goals.
Here’s to a happy, healthy start to the New Year!