How to Stay on Track (and Sane) Over the Holidays

Ah, the festive season… it comes in fast. Twinkly lights, mince pies, school concerts, end-of-term chaos — and suddenly your lovely routines go flying out the window.

Between travel, guests, social plans and a to-do list that multiplies overnight, it’s no wonder exercise is usually the first thing to go. But here’s the truth: this is exactly when movement matters most. Not to “burn off the turkey,” but because it keeps you grounded, calm and sane when life feels a bit overwhelming. At Meet You At The Barre, I’m all about helping you fit movement into your life, not the other way round. Here are my best tips to keep your body and your head happy through the holidays.

It only takes ten. You don’t need an hour — you just need intention. Ten focused minutes of movement can shift your entire mood. A quick Barre Bite, a stretch, a walk around the block or even a dance in the kitchen all count.

Keep it simple.

Movement doesn’t have to be intense or complicated. You can fit in a few plies while the kettle boils or sneak in 50 squats while you wait for the oven timer. Small things add up faster than you think.

Use what you’ve got.

No weights? No problem. Bodyweight movements are brilliant. All the Start Where You Are classes are 20-minute, equipment-free workouts, and the Travel Series uses either just bodyweight or a ball and band, which pack down to almost nothing.

Stay flexible — literally and mentally.

The best-laid plans will get derailed. Someone will get ill, travel will run late, or the weather won’t cooperate. Roll with it. A short walk, a five-minute stretch or a quick reset class is enough to keep the habit alive. Just move when and how you can.

Have fun with it.

Move because it feels good, not because you “should.” Play tag with the kids, dance at a party, have a solo kitchen disco — joyful movement is still movement and it’s often the most sustainable kind.

Christmas isn’t about perfection — it’s about being present.

Keep your expectations realistic, your movement simple and joyful, and your mindset kind. When the holidays are over, you’ll be grateful you kept the habit going. You’ll feel better in your head and in your body.