The festive season is a time for celebration, connection, and well-deserved rest â but for many people, it can also bring unexpected physical stress. Between long periods of sitting, carrying heavy shopping bags, marathon cooking sessions, disrupted routines, and the emotional load of the season, itâs no surprise that many experience aches, stiffness, or flare-ups in longstanding conditions.
At Osteo & Physio, we believe prevention is always better than cure. With a few simple osteopathic principles in mind, you can protect your body, stay comfortable, and enjoy the holidays feeling your best.
1. Pace Yourself â Your Body Will Thank You
Itâs easy to do too much too quickly during the festive rush. Whether youâre cleaning the house, preparing food, or wrapping presents, try to split tasks into shorter, manageable periods. Overloading your body â especially your back, shoulders, and neck â increases the risk of strains and muscular fatigue.
Taking short breaks every 20â30 minutes helps reset your posture, reduces tension, and stops small stressors from accumulating into bigger issues.
2. Mind Your Lifting and Carrying
From shopping bags to boxes of decorations, lifting awkward loads is part of the season. Support your spine by:
- Keeping items close to your body
- Bending at the hips and knees rather than rounding your back
- Avoiding twisting while lifting
- Sharing the load where possible
If something feels too heavy or awkward â it probably is. Listen to your body and keep movements controlled and deliberate.
3. Stay Mobile During Long Journeys
Whether youâre travelling to visit family or spending more time seated at home, prolonged sitting can leave the hips, lower back, and neck feeling stiff. Try standing, stretching, or gently mobilising your spine every hour. Even simple movements â shoulder rolls, ankle circles, or standing extensions â can reduce tension and improve circulation.
If you drive long distances, adjust your seat to support the natural curve of your spine and avoid slouching forward.
4. Keep Active, Even in Small Ways
Daily routines often change in December, and itâs common for physical activity levels to drop. You donât need a full workout â a brisk walk, gentle stretching, or a few mobility exercises can go a long way toward keeping joints supple and muscles working efficiently.
Movement also supports mood regulation, helping counter some of the emotional stress many people feel during the holiday season.
5. Support Your Wellbeing with Rest and Hydration
Late nights, rich food, and alcohol can leave the body feeling sluggish and more vulnerable to tension. Prioritising good sleep, staying well hydrated, and maintaining balanced meals where possible all contribute to better musculoskeletal function. Your body repairs itself during rest â and it needs that recovery time, especially when routines are demanding.
6. Seek Support Before Discomfort Builds
If you have a history of back pain, joint issues, or recurring tension, a pre-holiday osteopathic or physiotherapy session can help prepare your body for the season ahead. Early treatment can ease stiffness, improve mobility, and reduce the likelihood of flare-ups.
Enjoy a Comfortable, Happy Festive Season
With a little awareness and a few supportive habits, you can move through the holidays with ease and confidence. If discomfort does arise, our expert team at Osteo & Physio is here to help you recover quickly and stay well.
Wishing you a healthy, happy, and stress-free festive season.