Advent Day 23 | Incorporate NEAT Exercises into Your day

Brides: Incorporating NEAT into Your Family’s Holiday Routine

The holiday season is a joyous but often hectic time, especially for brides who may be juggling wedding planning alongside family gatherings and celebrations. Amid the hustle and bustle, keeping active is essential—not just through formal workouts but through simple, everyday movements. This is where NEAT, or Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis, comes into play.

NEAT includes all the little ways you move outside of structured exercise: walking, tidying, cooking, playing, and even dancing around the living room. As a bride, weaving these light activities into your family’s holiday routine can help manage stress, boost energy, and maintain healthy habits—all while enjoying quality time together.

Practical Ways to Add NEAT During the Holidays

Kitchen Movement: Use meal prep and cooking as opportunities to move more. Whether chopping veggies, stirring pots, or washing dishes, these actions burn calories and keep you active without extra time set aside. Invite family members to join you for shared tasks that foster bonding and movement.

Cleaning Routines: Keep common areas tidy as a group activity. Decluttering, decorating, or straightening rooms can be turned into light exercise that doubles as holiday prep.

Activities: Encourage family games that get everyone moving—like a holiday scavenger hunt, dancing to festive music, or playful snowball fights if you’re in a snowy area. These moments create fun memories and keep the body moving.

Walks and Outings: Schedule family strolls to enjoy holiday lights or nature. Walking together relaxes the mind, aids digestion after large meals, and provides gentle exercise.

Standing: During long gatherings or gift unwrapping sessions, remind everyone to take small standing or stretching breaks to burn extra calories. 60 calories sitting / 100 calories standing.

The Bigger Picture

Adding NEAT into your family’s holiday routine is about burning calories.  As a bride, modeling NEAT  will contribute to a healthier, happier holiday.