Are you ready for Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha?
These holidays might be part of your religious practices, cultural traditions, or perhaps you’re simply experiencing them while visiting Dubai or taking a break elsewhere. Regardless, they often present a shift from the day-to-day routines, and amid these changes, it’s easy for fitness – both physical and mental – to take a back seat. This guide offers you practical tips to maintain your fitness goals, irrespective of the context of these holidays in your life.
Physical Fitness for Observants
Whether you’re preparing for Arafat Day, Eid al-Adha, or embarking on a pilgrimage, these events might involve long periods of prayer, family gatherings, and feasts. But staying physically active is still possible and beneficial. Here’s how:
Home Workouts:
Fly High Fitness Center might be closed during these days, but you don’t have to miss your fitness routine. Bodyweight exercises, yoga, Pilates, or High-Intensity Interval Training can be your workout buddies. There’s a wealth of online resources to guide you, no matter your fitness level, but you can simply check our online lockdown workouts!
Outdoor Activities
Weather permitting, seize the opportunity to get some fresh air and engage in outdoor activities. A leisurely walk or a bicycle ride during the cooler hours of early morning or late evening can be a great way to stay active.
Group Activities
Family gatherings offer a unique opportunity to organize group activities. These could be fun games, dance sessions, or group walks. Not only will these activities provide a form of light physical exercise, but they also strengthen your bond with family members.
Pilgrimage and Fitness
If you’re participating in a pilgrimage, you’ll find that it’s a physically demanding experience. It involves a lot of walking, which in itself is a form of exercise. Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and take rest when needed. It’s also important to engage in light stretching exercises at the end of the day to ease any muscle stiffness and to prepare your body for the next day.
Whether you’re in the midst of religious observances or simply trying to stay fit during a break, it’s possible to maintain and even enhance your fitness level during this period. Balance and planning are key, and remember that every bit of activity counts.
Fitness for Non-Religious Individuals and Holiday-Goers
If you’re not religious or are on vacation, it’s quite common for regular fitness routines to get sidetracked. However, staying active is easier than you might think:
Explore on Foot
Make sightseeing an active adventure by exploring on foot or by bicycle. It’s an enjoyable way to blend physical activity with your explorations.
Hotel Facilities:
If you’re staying at a hotel, use their fitness facilities. Many hotels have fitness centers or swimming pools that you can utilize.
Portable Fitness Equipment
Consider packing light fitness equipment like resistance bands, a jump rope, or a yoga mat. A quick workout in your hotel room or a nearby park can help you maintain your fitness routine.
Active Excursions
Choose active tours or excursions, like hiking trails, snorkeling, or paddle-boarding. They’re a fun way to experience your holiday destination while keeping fit.
Nutrition and Mental Wellness
While physical activity is essential, your fitness journey during Arafat Day, Eid al-Adha, or pilgrimage is also about mindful eating and mental wellness. Here are some practical tips to balance your plate, quiet your mind, and rest your body.
Balanced Eating
Feasts and local cuisines are highlights of any holiday. As you enjoy these, remember to balance your indulgences with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Mental fitness is equally important as physical fitness. Whether through meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection, find a few moments each day to connect with yourself.
Rest Well
Ensure you’re getting enough rest. Amid the celebrations or the thrill of travel, a good night’s sleep is crucial for your overall health and well-being.
Maintaining fitness during religious holidays or while on holiday can feel like a challenge, but with some foresight and planning, it’s absolutely achievable. Balance is key. These periods are not just for celebration and relaxation; they also offer an opportunity to maintain and boost your wellness. Whether you’re observing these holidays or just taking a break, remember that staying fit is part of enjoying your time to the fullest.
As these important dates approach, remember to prioritize your health, enjoy the celebrations, and stay safe. Eid Mubarak to those celebrating, and to all, best wishes for your continued fitness journey!
