Our Campbell personal trainers know that the holidays are RIGHT around the corner, so we wanted to provide you a game-plan to help you stay on-track, feel STRONG, and still have FUN! FACT: Chances are the holidays this year are going to look a little (lot?!) different than most other years. ALSO FACT: Being prepared for that difference ahead of time can help you (and your loved ones) avoid disappointment and actually enjoy yourself! Our Campbell personal trainers believe it all comes down to being INTENTIONAL with how you spend your time over the next month and a half. This can include planning new/different activities or changing up your holiday traditions and celebrations. 1. Food. Organize your day-to-day meals and plan ahead! What you eat has a powerful effect on how you feel – from your mood to your energy ... and it even plays a role in your immune system and sleep. When it comes to your holiday meal traditions, this might be a good year to switch things up! If you usually cook/bake a lot of holiday meals or treats, this is an opportunity to try new recipes … and scale the amount back a bit so there are fewer temptations. :) Focusing on the quality of food vs. quantity can make a major difference. 2. MOVE! Our Campbell personal trainers want you to keep your energy up and immune system healthy by exercising at least 30 minutes most days of the week. This can be as simple as going for a brisk walk. This is SO beneficial for your mood, and research shows that getting in those 30 minutes can cut your chances of getting a cold in HALF! 3. Be more prepared than usual. This is for your own peace of mind so you can avoid last-minute stress! If you’re doing your holiday shopping online, do it NOW. As you know, shipping times have been all over the place this year. If you normally travel but are staying put this year, come up with some activities ahead of time to help you capture the magic of the season. Ideas: A movie night … a family walk to look at decorations ... game night … putting together care packages for those less fortunate. ALSO, super important: ask other household members what they would like to do to celebrate this year! This will add to the festive spirit. 4. Self-care. If you do find yourself feeling down about how this year is different, our Campbell personal trainers want you to take some time to acknowledge those feelings. And then do something to take control and lift your mood. Get some exercise, send a card in the mail to a friend, take a hot bath, read a book, hop on a video chat with a family member, bake something healthy for a neighbor, etc. You’ve got plenty of options - the key is just to have a plan, so you don’t have to wing it! Our Campbell personal trainers hope these suggestions help spark some new ideas for a happy and healthy holiday season! Live Stronger For Today, John Heringer Chief Motivator, Method3 Fitness Method3 Fitness is conveniently located in San Jose. Our team of personal trainers serve clients in Los Gatos, Campbell, Willow Glen and other surrounding Bay Area cities. Ready to get started with us? Fill out the “Request More Information Now” box above to receive your free consultation with our Campbell personal trainers and experience the Method3 difference OR call us at (408) 371-1212 to connect. Hope we can talk to you soon. If you found this blog useful, be sure to LIKE, LEAVE A COMMENT, and SHARE it on your favorite channel! The Method3 Fitness blog is updated weekly by our Campbell personal trainers. All content is designed to improve the way you move, eat, and think so you can achieve your goals and live stronger for today. Check back here each week and LIKE our Fan Page, to stay up to date on the latest tips, strategies and methods to get fit, lose fat, and build confidence.