WORKOUTS FOR YOUR MOODS

Need a pick-me-up, but don't quite have the energy? These activities will get you moving and out of your post-holiday funk.

NEW YEAR, NEW US. We don’t mean to be cliché, but is there really any better time for working on yourself than when Jan. 1 rolls around—whether you’re focused on your physical health or your mental health? It sure seems like the perfect time, but there will also be days when you’re just not quite feeling it. The holidays are over, the days are shorter and, let’s face it, there’s not really a ton to look forward to until spring sprouts. But, whatever your mood is this time of year, there’s still an activity you can do that’s worthwhile—and will give you a boost! Here’s how to choose the right one.

A regular yoga practice can help to ease anxiety by increasing body awareness, reducing muscle tension, relieving stress and sharpening attention + concentration.

Ragdoll pose is great for relaxation and to release tension. Stand tall + reach your arms up, then allow them to fall gently toward the floor as you bend down.

This calming and restorative pose is a common beginner’s position. Starting from your knees, sit back on your heels then walk your arms forward, bringing your torso down until you can rest your forehead on the floor.

Relax one body part at a time, one muscle at a time + one thought at a time through a daily Savasana practice.

There’s a reason people who are active runners describe something called a “runner’s high.” Studies show that aerobic exercises release mood-boosting endorphins.

If you want to get into running but aren’t sure where to start, check out a couch-to-5K program to ease into it.

Challenge yourself by switching up your running routine. Whether you’re changing your route or upping your distance, a new twist could give you a nice refresh.

Whether you’re into 10K’s or half marathons, consider signing up for a new race and decreasing your time.

When you feel like you’re in a rut with your workouts and just don’t feel motivated anymore, try something new and exciting! Rock climbing is a great way to introduce something different without it feeling like a workout.

Climbing gyms have been popping up everywhere as the sport becomes more mainstream + are a great option for those who prefer to be adventurous indoors.

Bouldering, great for developing power, is a type of rock climbing where the climber doesn’t use ropes or harnesses, generally done on a much smaller scale.

Since climbing can use different muscles from traditional workouts, it’s important to keep up with strengthening those. Key areas to pay attention to include upper body, lower body, core, fingers and wrists.

When your head is full of thoughts, it can get overwhelming. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) provides a break from that with short bursts of 100% focus followed by rest. Here’s a quick circuit.

Do as many reps as possible in 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds of rest.

Climb it out for 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds of rest.

Hold your plank for 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds of rest.

Repeat the circuit three times for a quick workout that touches on strength, cardio + core.