Improving our relationships with food and exercise this holiday season

Remember those magazine headlines like “How to Burn Off Your Christmas Dinner!” or “Five Fattiest Foods to Avoid at Christmas”?
About a decade ago, it felt like every festive season came with a side of guilt. We were told to “earn” our meals or “make up” for indulgence with punishing workouts.

Thankfully, times are changing. We’re moving toward a healthier, kinder relationship with food, movement, and our bodies. Instead of restriction and self-criticism, the conversation now includes mindfulness, self-care, and compassion.

So, as the holidays roll around, it’s worth checking in with yourself:
How do you think about food and exercise this time of year? Do you ever feel that pull to “make up” for a big meal or an extra glass of wine?

If so, you’re not alone - and the good news is, there’s a gentler way to approach the season.

Here are a few things to keep in mind this holiday season:

Enjoy yourself whilst being mindful

It’s the holidays! It’s been a long year and it’s time for some relaxation and celebration. Have those extra prawns or take that midday siesta - but only if that’s what you feel like doing.

Be gentle with yourself

Ate too much? Told a joke that wasn’t very funny? Stopped doing those exercises that your pesky Healthy Connections physio suggested? It’s okay! The world won’t stop turning. Accept that it happened and try again tomorrow.

Exercise because you want to, not because you should

Think about the activity you’d like to do. Would you enjoy a walk with a distant relative to catch up? Maybe some tai chi under a tree at the park with a friend? Choose movement that feels good - not just what feels “necessary.”

Have a break… but not for too long

Time off is essential. When we’re go, go, go for too long, burnout creeps in - and the holidays are the perfect chance to rest.

However, if you take weeks off without any physical activity, it can be much harder to get back into your routine. Try sprinkling in small bursts of movement throughout your day - take the long route to the bathroom or stretch while waiting for the kettle to boil. Little things count!

A gentle reminder as the year ends

The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, connection, and rest - not punishment or pressure. Give yourself permission to enjoy good food, laughter, and moments of stillness. Move your body in ways that make you feel alive, not obligated.

Remember: balance doesn’t mean perfection. It means showing yourself grace when things don’t go to plan and returning, gently, to the habits that make you feel your best.

This year, let’s make peace with our plates, our bodies and our minds - and step into the new year with kindness as our new tradition.

Keep Moving Over the Holidays

Looking to stay active, energised, and ready for the year ahead? Healthy Connections is here to support you! Our Healthy Connections clinic will close at 1pm on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, and reopen Monday, 5 January 2026.

Book a session before the holidays to get personalised movement tips, exercises, or guidance to help you keep moving safely and confidently through the festive season and into the new year.