Keeping moving self care at Christmas

As well as enjoying all the festive cheers, treats and togetherness this Christmas, keeping moving is at the top of my list. And however big or small those movements are, I’d encourage you to give it a go to keep your body and mind healthy over the Christmas break. Here are a few suggestions:

A walk after a meal – even if it’s just a walk round the block, slowly or briskly. I’ve been enjoying walking out at night and enjoying all the Christmas lights adorning people’s houses – some have really gone to town on it this year and they look fab and always brighten my mood and my body appreciates the exercise.

Qigong – I recently started practising Qigong after taking part in a small taster session. It’s a very gentle and easy form of sequenced movements. I found a daily class online, which is free/donation and it’s been really great to set a side time for moving and with the benefit of learning something new. Qi gong is a very old form of martial art and literally translates as “energy work.” A lot of the movements are performed standing but there are many variations including seated movements. It also includes some small moments of meditation, which is really relaxing but not too pressured.

Whatever kind of movement you practise this Christmas, take care and stay safe. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!