Every year, December arrives with this strange mix of excitement and overwhelm. The holidays, the parties, the school events, the cookies, the travel… and then there’s us, trying to juggle everything while quietly thinking about what we didn’t get done this year. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had this thought: “Well… I didn’t lose the weight. I didn’t work on that business idea. I didn’t stay consistent. So what’s the point now? I’ll just start in January.”

Working out is more than just exercise — it’s therapy for the mind. It’s where clarity happens, stress fades, and confidence grows with every move. Whether it’s a walk, a stretch, or a lift, movement helps you reconnect with yourself and find peace in your day. Start small, move in a way that feels good, and discover how powerful it feels to honor your body and mind.

preventive care is about taking small, intentional steps to support your health BEFORE a problem arises. It’s about making daily choices: what you eat, how you move, how you manage stress, that can help you avoid future illness, pain, or complications.

You don’t need a perfect routine — just one that helps you feel grounded and present. Waking up a little earlier (especially before the kids) gives you something powerful: space to focus on you. The more you anchor your morning with energizing habits, the less likely you are to feel overwhelmed later in the day.

This article is featured in the April issue of Tampa Bay Parenting. Read the full issue here Link