How to Stay Active During Long Festive Holidays
Introduction
Festivals are a time of joy, togetherness and indulgence. In India, many festivals come with long holidays, travel plans and an abundance of delicious food. These moments are meant for enjoyment. However, these pose challenges for people with diabetes. Festivals often involve fasting, no exercise, late nights, waking up late and over-eating. All these activities lead to instability of the blood sugars. The happy news is that staying active during long festival holidays is possible. But we need a little planning and creativity.
Why Activity Matters During Holidays
Regular physical activity controls blood sugars. Exercise helps muscles absorb glucose more efficiently, lowers insulin resistance, reduces stress and keeps weight under control. Festivals involve the consumption of sweets and fried foods. Hence, physical activity is a must to counterbalance this. Without movement, blood sugars can spike, leading to tiredness, irritability, or even serious complications.
Common Challenges in Staying Active
- Irregular Schedule: Late-night waking up or fasting can disturb your fitness routine.
- Travel Plans: When we plan for a long trip, the chances of doing exercise decrease.
- Social Commitments: With guests and family gatherings, people may feel they don’t have time for exercise.
- Tempting Foods: Sweets, fried snacks, and festive meals are rich in calories, carbs and fats.
Simple & Enjoyable Ways to Stay Active
- Start the Day with a Walk
A short brisk walk in the morning can set the day’s physical activity. 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity can help burn calories and keep blood sugar steady. - Turn Festivities into Fitness
Involving yourself in dance, traditional games, or even light chores like decorating the house or shopping for supplies can be helpful. These activities double up as exercise. - Short Home Workouts
If you are not able to go out, simple indoor workouts such as squats, yoga stretches, skipping rope, or push-ups can keep you active. Doing 10 to 15 minutes of exercise can work wonders. - Active Travel Choices
Try to take the stairs instead of the lifts. Have a light walk around as you wait for the lift to arrive. - Mini Activity Breaks
Set reminders to stand, stretch, or walk every hour. Light activity after meals—such as a 10-minute stroll—can prevent sugar spikes.
Balancing Diet and Activity
Staying active works best when paired with mindful eating.
- Practice Portion Control: Enjoy festive foods, but in small servings.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly and avoid sugary drinks.
- Include Fibre and Protein: Add salads, sprouts or dal to meals to balance blood sugar.
- Don’t Skip Medication: Keep track of your prescribed medicines and monitor blood sugar regularly, especially after indulgent meals.
Benefits of Staying Active During Festivals
- Stable Blood Sugar: Reduces the risk of sudden spikes and crashes.
- Improved Digestion: Helps the body process festive meals better.
- Better Mood and Energy: Physical activity boosts endorphins, keeping stress away.
- Weight Management: Prevents excess weight gain during long holidays.
Practical Tips for Success
- Carry comfortable shoes when travelling, so you can take walks anywhere.
- Involve family members in fun group activities—it makes exercise feel less like a chore.
- Break activity into small chunks throughout the day if you can’t manage long sessions.
- Keep a journal of steps or activity minutes to stay motivated.
Conclusion
Festive holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not avoided. With a little planning, you can strike the right balance between celebration and health. By making small adjustments—like adding walks, dancing with family or short workouts—you can stay active, keep your blood sugars stable, and enjoy the holidays to the fullest.
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