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Running Tips

Holistic holidays on the run

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Pair your running goals with positive mental and emotional health rituals.

For runners, the holiday season is a time to balance our long runs with long-term goal setting and celebrations. But we all know the holidays aren't always restful. Stressing out over finding the perfect gift or fighting the cold-weather blues can make you feel less merry and bright. The holidays are meant to be a joyous season. Here are some ways to take care of yourself this winter.

Pair your running goals

Find balance during the holidays

The holidays can be a busy, stressful time — don't forget to make space for your emotional and mental wellness while you're on the run this season.

Try these ideas:

RUN A NEW ROUTE

With so much going on this time of year, it can be easy to run just for the sake of running. Finding a new path helps keep your runs interesting and prevents this activity we love from feeling like a chore.

VOLUNTEER

Giving back is a great way to connect with your local community, plus studies have shown that doing good can release dopamine in the brain, giving you a sense of happiness and fulfillment.

MEDITATE

Offer your brain a rest from the busy world around you. It's an excellent way to shred stress. Practicing mindful meditation not only takes you out of trying moments, it can prep your mind for better running performance.

Find balance during the holidays

Run and rest together

The holiday season can push and pull you in many ways. Being present for yourself and the run is no easy feat. Keeping up with your normal runs is one of the best healthy holiday habits, but it's so important to prioritize proper rest too. Check out these ideas for you to connect with the run, yourself, and your community this holiday season.

My run

SIGN UP FOR A RACE

  • Join a holiday-themed fun race like a local turkey trot or Jingle Bell Run.
  • Add some extra holiday cheer by decorating your shoes with lights and bells.
  • Find a fun costume to wear during your race.

SEEK OTHERS

  • Reconnect with friends or family on the run.
  • Make holiday treats together.
  • Plan a potluck.

TAKE A STROLL

  • Invite a loved one for a walk.
  • Take in the neighbourhood at a more leisurely pace than usual.
  • Enjoy the holiday decorations.
Run and rest together

My rest

ENJOY A HOLIDAY MEAL

  • Have some sweets, get after those carbs, and seek out all the flavours of the season.
  • Don't forget your veggies.
  • Put lots of colours on your plate to ensure you're getting good balanced nutrition.

STRETCH

  • Traveling and stress can make you tense and tight.
  • Be sure to leave your desk and walk around.
  • Grab a foam roller and do a 30-minute stretching routine.

VEG OUT

  • Throw on some episodes of your favourite show or rewatch your favourite holiday movies.
  • Start that novel you've been meaning to read.
  • Remember, entertainment is a great way to de-stress and wind down after a long run.

Participate in your own holistic holiday

Happy holidays to all who run! We want to know how you practice a holistic holiday. Follow a checklist or create and share a photo-essay / short video and tag @BrooksRunning and #itsyourrun on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Here's how to share your Run Happy and Rest Happy:

  • #1 Screenshot the checklist from our Instagram
  • #2 Share gifs, photos, or video to show how you're finding balance this holiday season
  • OR make a photo collage to share how you moved and celebrated during the holidays
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