I was talking with a co-worker at the Y last week about how our class numbers started to plummet in November, will continue to steadily decline through December and then skyrocket in January when everyone repents their holiday sins and commits to working out again. The question we asked each other is, “why wait?” Why do healthy lifestyle choices have to wait until January 1? Why can’t they start (or continue) in December?

Yes, the holidays are busy and sometimes stressful but that’s just another reason to do something good for yourself. I guarantee that you will feel markedly better if you balance out the holiday indulgences with a little healthy food and some exercise. I am the first to admit that I am all about cookies, wine and festive dinners but I also try to maintain my workout schedule as much as possible. I find I stress less and feel better when I do this.

Here are some ideas for adding a little healthy living to your December.

Sign up for a holiday 5K with friends.

I had so much fun running the Charlotte Thanksgiving Turkey Trot with friends. Races are a great way to spend time with friends and family during the holidays and doing something other than eating, drinking and shopping.

Practice yoga.

One of the things I love most about yoga is that when I unroll my mat, any stress I’m feeling melts away as I focus on breath and movement. Who doesn’t want to feel relaxed and stress-free during the holidays? Even if you’ve never tried yoga, there’s no reason why you can’t start on December 1 and not January 1. I love Katie’s 25 Days of Yoga Challenge and have a feeling I’ll be joining her in her challenge and spending more days in the studio than usual this month.

Cross-train or try new classes.

What better time to try a new cross-training activity or new class at the gym than when it’s empty in December? Maybe it’s committing to trying a new activity each week – maybe you spin, dance, strength train and swim. Or maybe it’s adding something new to your routine,  like weight lifting, and sticking to it for a month. Do something that’s new, fun and challenging.

What are you waiting for? Don’t let the holidays pass you by in a blur of busyness and indulgence. Enjoy them but do something positive for yourself! What are you waiting for?