With the holidays just around the corner, many of us will be spending more time with our family and friends. These relationships impact our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing—in fact, our relationships can hugely affect our health journey and lifestyle choices.
That's right: fitness is not a solo sport. Instead, our relationships with others play a large role in our health and in how we feel about ourselves. Spending time with those we love is essential for our mental wellbeing and keeps us motivated throughout the rest of the year.
Here are a few of our favorite tips for making the most of our relational time this holiday season. We'd love to hear from you too, so if you have your own, feel free to share with us on Facebook or Instagram!
1. Prioritize one-on-one conversations
With big gatherings happening throughout the holiday season, it's important to schedule intentional one-on-one time too. Do you live away from your siblings, or your parents? Try to set aside an hour or so with each person during your visit, as time allows. Do something active together, like going for a walk in nature. Be intentional about listening and lift one another up through encouragement.
2. Lead with love, no matter your differences
Let's not ignore the elephant in the room: we just finished a midterm election. Politics is bound to come up with some families, leading to uncomfortable conversations. Whatever you do this holiday season, lead your interactions with love. Remember that we are all different and have varying opinions—that's okay! Be kind and curious, and know when to pause a conversation if it gets too heated.
3 Have fun!
Most importantly, have fun with your loved ones! Often, the holidays can stir up heavy emotions and conversations, but we need to have fun with one another too. Celebrate the love you share and get outside for a family hike or a playful game of football. Or if you'd prefer to stay inside, whip out the board games or cook a meal together.
