Whatever your status in life, health is not something that can be compromised. Oftentimes, we put our health needs at the bottom of our list in favor of practicality and seemingly more important things for the people we love or the people we are responsible for. Until one day, we find ourselves physically weakened, psychologically overwhelmed, and diagnosed with a medical condition that could have been prevented earlier on.

How can we continue to nurture the people we love, work efficiently, and enjoy life to the fullest if we are sick? It will not only drain your finances, but it will also prevent you from being able to make more money or even enjoy your wealth.

While you are busy making a list of things to buy for your loved ones this Christmas season, do remember that you are also important. You may also wish to get some nice and valuable stuff for yourself. Why don’t you take time to reflect on giving yourself something that will be valuable to your health?

Here are some gift ideas that you can choose from. These things are not overnight solutions to your weight and health issues. They could, however, jumpstart a wellness journey for you. One that is practical and sustainable, so you can reap the rewards later on.

Are you living a sedentary lifestyle? Is your calendar so full that it does not have a space for exercise? Can’t imagine yourself working out? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then it’s time to consider getting yourself a starter or trial package for an exercise activity. An annual gym membership may sound overwhelming to individuals who have difficulty with long-term commitments. However, gyms, dance studios, yoga and pilates studios now offer trial programs that you can avail of for a week, a month, or for a few number of sessions. You do not need to feel pressured about starting the classes during the busy holiday season. You can decide to get yourself a trial package to help you jumpstart the coming new year with a more active lifestyle. A few sessions of exercise or movement activities that you are interested in or may find enjoyable will give you more confidence that you can actually do it. Hoping that eventually, you can make it a part of your lifestyle. It may be challenging to start exercising. Even I, myself, still struggle mentally before a workout session, but rest assured, every individual who finishes a workout feels more energetic, refreshed, and overall healthier mentally and physically. Exercise not only helps with weight management, but it also benefits mental health by helping the brain produce mood-stabilizing hormones like serotonin and happy hormones like dopamine.

In addition to the exercise program, get yourself some good quality workout gear. You will never be motivated to work out if you wear house clothes. This is particularly applicable to individuals who choose to exercise at home with the aid of online coaches or online instructional videos. Including those who have their own exercise equipment at home. This Christmas, invest in good-quality gym shoes and clothes that fit you, make you feel comfortable, and yes, look nice too. There are brands that produce workout clothes that make you look nice with bulges hidden to make you feel more confident.

The pandemic has given rise to the setup of working from home. The world realized that working remotely is more efficient for some, and so the setup remained for many post-pandemic. This has led to a more sedentary lifestyle. If you are working from home and barely move during work hours, I have dire news for you. Sitting is now considered the new smoking. It is very detrimental to your health. But what can you do when your work requires you to stare at your devices the whole time? You cannot possibly walk around your house while on a virtual meeting, right? Therefore, the best present you can give yourself this Christmas is to get an ergonomic standing desk. If you cannot walk, at least stand up for hours. Studies have shown that you burn more calories standing up than sitting down. A standing desk that is adjustable can help you stand up in between work hours without anyone noticing during a virtual meeting. It will not disrupt your work, but it will surely increase your metabolism and fat-burning capacity.

Lastly, give yourself a smart watch. It does not have to be an expensive brand. There are now many options available in the market. Being aware of your steps, heart rate, and more will give you a better understanding of your body. It will make you more mindful to slow down, take deep breaths when you are under stress, and your heart rate is elevated. Individuals who are used to being constantly under stress barely notice that their heart rate or blood pressure is rising. They barely notice that their breathing is shallow and oxygen levels are not optimal. Having a device that could help you monitor and remind you to make little positive changes will go a long way in terms of health benefits.

This Christmas season, it is not selfish to invest in your health. It will be worth every penny if it means helping you begin your wellness journey one movement at a time.

Happy healthy holidays!