How to Keep Your Body Feeling Good During the Holiday Season
The holiday season brings joy, travel, gatherings, and a shift in daily routines. It also brings small changes that can affect how your body feels. Different sleep schedules, long car rides, heavy shopping bags, and more time on your feet can all add up. As a physical therapist, I often see patients who feel increased stiffness or discomfort around this time of year, not because anything is seriously wrong, but because their usual habits have shifted.
The good news is that with a little awareness, you can support your body and move through the season feeling comfortable and steady.
One of the biggest challenges during the holidays is the amount of time spent sitting. Travel, long meals, and social events often keep people in one position for longer than usual. Your body likes variety, so staying in one posture for too long can create tension in the lower back, hips, or neck. Changing positions, standing for a moment, or walking around briefly can help you feel more grounded and less stiff.
Another factor is lifting and carrying. Many people spend more time carrying groceries, luggage, or gifts. When these tasks are rushed, the body often compensates by twisting or lifting with the back instead of relying on the legs and core. I always remind patients to slow down, keep items close to the body, and use both arms whenever possible. Small adjustments like these protect the spine and reduce the chance of strain.
Energy also shifts during the holidays. Social events, travel schedules, and extra to do lists can leave the body feeling more fatigued. This is a good time to notice what your body is telling you. If you feel tired, gentle movement is often more supportive than pushing through a heavy task. When your energy feels stronger, you can return to your routine with more comfort and stability.
As the season gets busier, people often forget how much hydration and regular meals affect their energy and muscle comfort. Even slight dehydration can make the body feel tight or achy. Carrying a water bottle and eating consistent meals help support steady energy and reduce discomfort throughout the day.
The holiday season should feel enjoyable, not overwhelming for your body. When you stay aware of your posture, your lifting habits, your energy, and your movement patterns, you give your body the support it needs to move comfortably through the celebrations ahead.
Small moments of awareness go a long way. A few mindful choices can help your body feel balanced and supported as you move through the season with family, friends, and traditions.