Surviving the Silly Season

The silly season is well and truly underway and your social calendar will no doubt be filling up quicker than you realise. This time of year seems to be the time where people burn themselves out by trying to fit way too much into each day, and instead of it being an enjoyable and peaceful time of year, people are looking forward to it all being over. The team at Barefoot have created a survival guide so you don’t wear yourself out over the Christmas period. ‘Tis the season to be jolly.

1. Number one on the list is you. Don’t forget to prioritise you! Yes, this is the time of giving and spending time with family and friends, but that doesn’t mean that you or your health have to suffer. Make sure you stick to your exercise routine, but don’t be afraid to modify your workouts, whether it be the intensity or the time frame, be sure that you’re keeping your body happy. If you’re headed to the beach, keep in mind that a nice walk on the beach can also be considered a work out.
2. Warm up! We are all big fans of backyard cricket on Christmas and Boxing Day, but for most of us, this is a once in a year event. Try not to surprise your body too much when you go to hit the ball for six, or by pulling out that old spin bowl you had mastered in high school. Maybe try a few little warm-up exercises before you show everyone your inner Shane Warne. This also goes for lifting heavy esky’s, taking that huge leg of ham out of the oven, or even just doing something your body is not used to. Remember to always think about your positioning, and if needed, ask someone to give you a helping hand.
3. Stay hydrated! Over the silly season, people tend to drink a little more alcohol than they normally would throughout the year. This definitely helps with the spirit staying merry, but it is generally quite hot over the Aussie Christmas holiday, so try to keep that H2O close by for you to call on it regularly to help your body survive the break.
4. Rest up. Make sure you use some of your down time to take a little
   nap and catch up on sleep. The last thing you want to do after having time off is to get back into the swing of things feeling tired, lethargic and needed another break. After a big meal, don’t feel bad about sneaking off for a little nap. That is a pre-requisite on Christmas afternoon, right?!
5. Avoid sitting for too long. A lot of the time our Christmas day and accompanying social events are all sitting around the table eating delicious food. Do you best to keep your body happy by standing up every now and then, going and having a lay down on the couch, or just grab your pocket physio or lacrosse ball and do some releases. Your body will thank you for it later.
6. Decorate and embrace the Christmas feeling. Make sure you keep the Grinch away and embrace the Christmas carols, and make sure you decorate the house – it always puts a spring in your step. You can never have too many decorations at Christmas.
7. Be grateful. Make the most of the time you get to spend with your family and friends during this time. It is them that make Christmas time special, so be sure to take a moment and be grateful for those you hold so close.

The team at Barefoot wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe new year.