The Festive Toll on Our Bodies
Christmas is a time for joy, connection, and indulgence—but it often comes at a cost to our physical well-being. Between the cozy hours spent sitting on the couch watching festive films, overindulging rich foods, our disrupted routines, or sleeping in different beds, our bodies tend to bear the brunt of holiday cheer.
One common culprit is the lack of movement during the month of December compared to other months. Winter’s chill and the allure of social gatherings can make even the most active people fall into sedentary habits. Days that might usually include exercise are replaced by hours lounging with family, or shopping marathons that strain the body differently. This can leave muscles stiff and energy levels surprisingly low, as movement is key to circulation and mood regulation.
Another overlooked factor is the strain of sleeping in unfamiliar beds. Many of us spend the holidays visiting family and friends, sacrificing the comfort of our mattresses and pillows. Guest beds, couches, or even air mattresses often fail to provide the support our bodies need, leading to restless nights and sore backs. Combine poor sleep posture with the stress of holiday travel, and you have a recipe for physical discomfort that lingers well into the New Year.
But it’s also the things we don’t think about. Crawling into the loft to get down the decorations, over reaching to put up the lights, wrapping presents on the floor -all sure fire way to get the body screaming “no no no” and not “ho ho ho”
While letting go of routines during the holidays is tempting, minor adjustments can make a difference.
Remember, whilst there is no such thing as perfect posture, the body just doesn’t like to be in the same position for long periods of time.
A brisk walk after meals can aid digestion, a quick Pilates routine can nib in the bud any back niggles, and a little downward facing dog can ease stiffness.
The holidays are a time for celebration, but tending to your body ensures you can enjoy them to the fullest—without paying the price later.
Need a reminder of the Pilates Matwork to help you this holiday season?
Clever Joseph Pilates created a matwork programme for you between studio apparatus visits.
Using just a mat and your body resisting against gravity, this system takes care of every joint and gives love to your core stability and back support.
Join Michelle and Ellen for a 10-11 min early progression matwork routine that can be done daily over Christmas to ensure you are looking after YOU!
Please note- this workout is for general healthy bodies and has no modifications applied that may be necessary for your back, osteoporosis, pelvic floor issue, hernia, neck, knee or shoulder issue or for those that are pregnant or postnatal. Please check with your teacher first as to how to modify.
If you liked our post and /or appreciate this free workout, please consider donating to our chosen charity, The Gold from the Stone Foundation
DONATE WHAT YOU CAN HERE or drop your donation into our collection pot in the studio.
Thank you, and Merry Christmas.