Finding Balance This Festive Season

As the festive season approaches, I wanted to share some thoughts on creating balance in your life during what can be the busiest time of year. Balance isn't just about physical stability (though we'll get to that!) – it's about nurturing your whole self through the celebrations ahead.

1. Stay Consistent with Movement

The festive season is upon us, and while schedules get hectic, staying consistent with movement is more important than ever. If you can't make it to class, try "exercise snacks" – short 30-minute sessions that keep you moving without overwhelming your schedule. My online classes incorporate light weights too, so you can maintain your strength training even during the busiest weeks.

2. Balance Your Social Calendar

I absolutely love parties and catching up with friends and family – but I've learned that two nights out in a row is my limit! Beyond that, I'm left sleep-deprived, dehydrated, and rather short-tempered. Balance your festive nights out with cozy evenings at home on the sofa, catching up on great TV now that the nights are drawing in. Your body (and family!) will thank you.

3. Mindful Drinking

Who doesn't love a glass of champagne during the celebrations? But too much alcohol disrupts our sleep quality, leaving us tired yet wired. My tips: always drink water throughout the day and match every alcoholic drink with a glass of water. The wonderful news is there are now so many excellent alcohol-free options available. I often enjoy a fabulous non-alcoholic gin and tonic instead – ask for a Clean G Rhubarb, it's delicious! Give it a try and see if you feel brighter in the morning.

Clean G Rhubarb Non-Alcoholic Gin

4. Quieting the Mind

Let's not forget our whirring minds at this time of year! Christmas food delivery slots, present buying, family plans, guests arriving, work deadlines, and year-end projects – it can feel overwhelming. Pilates is the perfect antidote to this mental chatter, offering you an hour to fully engage in your movement with focus and concentration.

The practice slows your breathing, regulating your heart rate and promoting feelings of calm and wellbeing. This slow, controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system – responsible for your body's "rest and digest" functions – helping you feel more grounded amidst the chaos.

5. Physical Balance and Body Care

We also need balance in our bodies. Busy times can exacerbate joint pains and niggles, especially as the weather takes a nosedive and the cold affects our extremities and joints. Social pressure manifests as shoulder and neck tension, while extra party food and alcohol contribute to inflammation in the body.

Strengthening your body through Pilates improves bone health and helps maintain muscle mass. Here's a bonus: muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat, burning more calories even at rest. Regular exercise helps maintain a higher metabolism in both the short and long term – even more critical when those mince pies are calling our name!

How I Can Support You This Season

Group Mat Pilates Class

For Specific Niggles:

- Book a 1:1 Mat or Reformer session to address any specific concerns

- Join my Back to Sport program to ensure you're working correctly for your body and your favourite activities

- Been given exercises by your physio but never get around to doing them? I can help build them into your regular exercise program

Group Classes:

- Local mat classes – check out my schedule

- Live classes from the comfort of your own home

- Garden Studio sessions for a peaceful, intimate setting

Flexible Options:

- Monthly Pilates Membership with live and online class access

- On Demand library of Beginner and Intermediate classes – perfect for flexible schedules.

Don't forget to subscribe to get these emails in your Inbox on a regular basis, and be the first to hear of my Workshops, new Courses and ways to Thrive in Midlife.

Subscribe Here