Thanksgiving is a day filled with gratitude, family, and, of course, delicious but sometimes unhealthy food. For many, it’s a time to indulge and relax, which is well-deserved. But for me, this Thanksgiving started a little differently. As the sun rose on this special holiday, I laced up my walking shoes with the intention of embarking on an hour-long walk, embracing my commitment to health and fitness even amidst the holiday bustle. But, nature tried to stop me. I headed out the door and was met with rain. Not a heavy rain, but a rain heavier than a drizzle or sprinkle. Needless to say, I was disappointed. I thought my plans were ruined. I made a breakfast of oatmeal and turkey sausage and watched a Tubi movie while I wanted of the rain to stop. After a few minutes, the rain passed, I finished my breakfast and went about my day as planned.
A Walk in the Park
As I write this, I’m receiving messages about how I should be cooking dinner right now, at 8 AM, preparing to eat handsomely at dinner. While I do plan to indulge in a variety of sweet treats and possibly foods I don’t normally eat, I still believe it’s important to get in some form of exercise, even on this day. During during the holidays, it’s extremely important not just for maintaining physical health but also for managing stress, boosting energy, and cultivating discipline.
I made it to the park just before 10 AM. To my surprise, there were quite a few people there. I thought it would be empty due to it being Thanksgiving but I was pleasantly surprised to see some regulars as well as people I haven’t seen before. I began with my usual brisk walk through the park. Before my first lap was complete, it began to rain. But I kept going and the rain stopped shortly thereafter. On my walk I saw people walking at various speeds. Some were casually scrolling, some walked briskly and a few either jogged or ran.
I encountered so many friendly people. Usually people walk pass without making eye contact or saying hello. But today was different. I’m not sure if it was the spirit of Thanksgiving or if I just happen to be in the company of really good people today, nonetheless, I appreciated it. I passed a family of five happily walking with their dog. The matriarch of the family smiled and said hello. Later I passed a guy talking on his phone. Because he was on the phone I didn’t expect him to engage but he did. He gave a wave and a smile. Being outdoors around other people make fitness more enjoyable in my opinion.
The Importance of Fitness During the Holidays
Starting my Thanksgiving morning with a walk set the tone for the day. It was an opportunity to clear my mind, reflect on my blessings, and prepare myself mentally and physically for the festivities ahead. Exercise, even something as simple as walking, has a profound impact on mental clarity and emotional well-being—two things we can all use during the holiday season.
Discipline: The Secret Ingredient to Holiday Wellness
Let’s be honest: it wasn’t easy to get up early on a holiday. The warmth of my bed and the thought of relaxing while watching a Lifetime movie were tempting. But discipline is what separates good intentions from actionable steps. Deciding to prioritize my health meant making a conscious choice to rise and move, even when it wasn’t the easiest option.
This morning walk reminded me that discipline isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency. By showing up for myself today, I reinforced the habits I’ve worked so hard to build. It’s proof that health and fitness can coexist with celebration and indulgence. In fact, they make the indulgence even sweeter, knowing I’ve taken steps to care for my body and mind.
Finding Gratitude in Movement
As I walked, I found myself reflecting on the deeper reasons for my fitness journey. I’m grateful for the strength in my legs, the crisp morning air filling my lungs, and the ability to move and take care of my health. These moments of reflection added an extra layer of gratitude to my Thanksgiving celebration.
Movement is a gift. It’s a reminder of our bodies’ incredible capabilities and resilience. On a day dedicated to giving thanks, what better way to honor that gift than by using it?
Tips for Staying Active During the Holidays
If you’re inspired to incorporate fitness into your holiday routine, here are a few tips:
1. Plan Ahead: Schedule your workout or walk early in the day before festivities begin.
2. Keep It Simple: You don’t need an elaborate routine. A brisk walk, yoga session, or a quick workout at home can make a big difference.
3. Involve Loved Ones: Invite family or friends to join you. It’s a great way to connect and stay active together.
4. Celebrate Small Wins: Even a 10-minute walk is a victory. Every bit of movement counts.
5. Be Kind to Yourself: Holidays are about balance. Enjoy your favorite dishes guilt-free, knowing you’ve made time for your health.
A Thanksgiving to Remember
This Thanksgiving morning walk was more than just exercise; it was a celebration of self-care, discipline, and gratitude. It reminded me that staying active isn’t just about physical health—it’s about showing up for myself, even on days when it might be easier to take a break.
As I sat down to enjoy my Thanksgiving meal later in the day, I felt a deeper sense of appreciation—not just for the food on my plate but for the journey that brought me here. This holiday, I’m thankful for the gift of health, the strength of discipline, and the joy of movement. Here’s to walking into gratitude and embracing wellness, one step at a time.
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