It’s that time of year again. The leaves are falling, there’s a chill in the air, and candy is everywhere! Choosing to forgo candy and other Halloween goodies can make you feel deprived, but never fear. There are plenty of healthy ways to treat yourself this Halloween (no candy required)!
Treat #1: Spend Time Outdoors
Whether it’s visiting the park, walking around the neighborhood, or taking your little one trick-or-treating, spending time outdoors is an indulgence in today’s indoor world. Outdoor time offers many health benefits, including improved mood, concentration, and vitamin D production. So, get out and enjoy the beautiful autumn weather!
Treat #2: Get a Massage
Massage is not only relaxing, it’s good for you! Research shows that massage therapy can improve symptoms of anxiety, chronic headaches, insomnia, and digestive issues. It can also help you recover from tough workouts and sports injuries. If you don’t have time for a massage, a quick backrub from your partner can be a romantic Halloween treat.
Treat #3: Take a Bath
If massage isn’t in your budget, a hot bath is a rejuvenating alternative. Not only can bathing soothe tired, aching muscles, but adding colloidal oatmeal to your bath can soothe dry, itchy skin. Just lie back and let your holiday stress melt away.
Treat #4: Use Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the perfect addition to bath time. Adding essential oils to your bathwater can stimulate your senses and ease a variety of ailments. For example, a bath with lavender oil may promote better sleep and reduce anxiety. If baths aren’t your thing, you can get aromatherapy benefits by purchasing an essential oil diffuser or a yummy scented candle.
Treat #5: Purchase New Gear
According to sports psychologists, new fitness gear can liven up your workout! Whether it’s a sassy tank top, a specialized pair of running shoes, or the latest wearable activity tracker, fresh fitness finds are a fun and healthy alternative to calorie-laden sweets. New fitness apparel can also help you stick to your fitness routine throughout the holiday season.
Treat #6: Try a New Fitness Class
Trying a new fitness class is another treat that can (pumpkin) spice up a boring fitness routine. Sample a new type of exercise (such as yoga, suspension training, or Pilates) or experiment with hybrid classes, which blend exercise modalities for maximum results. Just visit your local gym or log-on to the VHPGO app and try something new this Halloween!
Treat #7: Workout with a Buddy
Exercising with a friend is not only fun, it’s also effective! Grabbing a workout buddy can help you work harder, stay accountable to your fitness goals, and even boost your self-confidence. Plus, you’ll probably have a few laughs as well!
Treat #8: Read a Book
Reading for pleasure is a special treat, but many of us forgo this relaxing pastime in favor of our smartphones. However, picking up a book offers many mental health benefits, including increased self-esteem, empathy, and ability to cope with difficulties. Unlike smartphones, which exacerbate stress, a good book is a relaxing way to unwind on a brisk fall evening.
Treat #9: Try a New Hobby
Life is busy, but taking time to enjoy a hobby can improve your mental and physical well-being. Active hobbies, such as golfing, tennis, and gardening, can burn extra calories and help you soak up the autumn weather. Indoor hobbies, such as knitting, drawing, or woodworking, are enjoyable ways to relax, sharpen your mind, boost creativity, and learn to enjoy the present moment. Best of all, hobbies are a great way to make new friends!
Treat #10: Meditate
Meditation, the act of taking time to focus and quiet the mind, can help you become more patient, relaxed, and self-aware. Even better, research shows that meditation may help manage the symptoms of many chronic conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and asthma, just to name a few. Clearly, meditation is a treat for the spirit, mind, and body.
Remember, getting healthy is the best treat you can give yourself! Log-on to the VHPGO app for access to live and on demand fitness, nutrition, and behavioral modification classes, as well as access to our health and wellness experts. We’re here to treat you well this Halloween!
