It’s the day after Thanksgiving and you may think to yourself “why did I eat so much?” Blame it on all the irresistible delicious dishes and the nostalgic embrace of comfort food, creating a perfect storm for overindulgence. All this wonderful food triggers warm, fuzzy memories, weaving a tapestry of taste and tradition that’s hard to resist. However, the aftermath brings a double whammy — the guilt of too much food and the physical aftermath of a stuffed belly.

Yet, despite the temptation to lay around in a food-induced coma, resisting the urge to exercise makes the situation worse. Not having physical activity leaves you feeling lethargic and demotivated, trapped in a cycle of post-feast regret. Breaking free from this slump requires a gentle reminder that a bit of movement can reignite energy and motivation, transforming the day after Thanksgiving into a chance to rejuvenate both body and spirit.

If you have a dog, they can motivate you because your furry friend needs their walks for exercise and bathroom needs! Taking them for a longer walk than usual can help shed some of those added calories from Turkey Day.

Boost your metabolism by doing a good workout. It elevates your metabolic rate, encouraging your body to burn calories more efficiently. This boost is especially beneficial after a hearty Thanksgiving meal, or eating leftovers, helping you digest food and maintain a healthier metabolism.

A lot of us can use some sort of Stress Relief during the holidays. The holiday season can bring both joy and stress. Exercise is a fantastic way to reduce stress by releasing endorphins that can improve your mood and reduce anxiety. Taking time for physical activity during Thanksgiving weekend can be a refreshing break from holiday pressures. If all you can muster is a nice walk, do that, you will be amazed how much better you feel! And of course there is always fun yard games like corn hole. You will exercise your arms by throwing and walking by getting your bean bag to toss again. The main thing is to move and not just sit around.

You will be amazed by doing a little physical activity after eating the big meal or the rich leftovers you will feel energized. Remember when we feel tired, that’s when we need to move! Fight the urge to do nothing, it really doesn’t help you and in the long run will make you feel worse.

Thanksgiving often disrupts regular routines, and incorporating exercise helps maintain a sense of normalcy. Whether it’s a quick workout in the morning or an evening stroll, sticking to your exercise routine can provide a semblance of structure during the holiday weekend. So don’t forget during this holiday season, keep your exercise routine and do a little extra too!