It may not cure melancholy, but a good stretch has many benefits

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” – Will Ferrell, Elf

Are you a singer? Of course you are! Just as I believe that we all have a writer within, so it is true that we all can sing on some level, although we may not all wish to “sing loud for all to hear” as Will Ferrell suggests in the fun holiday movie, Elf.

The holidays, as we know, can be festive, fun, and joyous. The holidays can also bring about a melancholy from any number of personal experiences. What the holidays do for us all, however, is change our schedules and often our responsibilities and expectations. Being mindful of the physical, emotional, and stressful changes that can occur will help us to get past some hurdles and find that we can practice good self-care and find joy in the season.

While I make no claim to providing therapy for melancholia, I do have some suggestions which may assist us in maintaining physical strength and energy during this busy time.

As we prepare our homes to celebrate the holiday season, we find ourselves on ladders climbing up and down to retrieve those often elusive decorations; on hands and knees searching for boxes and containers in back of closets; reaching up to the nether-regions of our pantries for items needed to cook and bake our goodies; shopping and wrapping gifts. The results of those activities, if we are not properly stretched and flexed, can be debilitating at a time when we need our energy resources. Make sure you go for that daily walk, that you stretch when you awaken, that you get those hand weights out and put them to good use, or put your fitness facility membership to work for you … your body and your stress level will thank you! Additionally, it is well-known that the release of endorphins by virtue of physical activity will benefit your emotional health. Definitely a win-win!

In particular, I suggest that you focus on your stretching and flexibility. As mentioned in a previous column, one thing that all athletes have in common regarding their training regimens – they all begin with stretching and flexibility work. So begin your day, no matter your schedule or other activities, with a stretching routine. This will allow you to warm your muscles and prepare your muscle groups for lifting, reaching, and moving. While stretching, use that time to focus on being positive, peaceful, and calm.

On a completely different topic but one near and dear to my heart … if you are considering a new pet please adopt a rescue; a special friend may be waiting for you right now. May you and yours experience a healthy, happy, and peaceful season ahead … don’t forget to sing!

Sharon McMahon, CNWC

The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.