Winter hiking can be a magical experience. Snow-covered trails, crisp air, and serene landscapes make it a favorite activity for outdoor and fitness enthusiasts alike. 

Not only that, but it’s an activity that offers significant health benefits including improving cardiovascular fitness, enhancing mental well-being, and building resilience in colder weather.

However, hiking in cold weather presents unique challenges. To ensure your winter adventures are both safe and enjoyable, here are essential tips for staying safe and fit on cold trails.

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1. Dress in Layers

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Layering is key to regulating body temperature during a winter hike. Use the three-layer system:

• Base Layer: Wicks moisture away from your skin. Opt for synthetic or wool materials.
• Insulating Layer: Retains body heat. Fleece or down are excellent choices.
• Outer Layer: Protects against wind, snow, and rain. Choose a waterproof and breathable jacket.

Don't forget insulated gloves, a hat, and a scarf or neck gaiter to protect extremities and exposed skin.

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2. Wear Proper Footwear

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Choose waterproof hiking boots with good insulation and traction. Pair them with moisture-wicking and thermal socks to keep your feet dry and warm. Consider using gaiters to keep snow out of your boots and traction devices like microspikes or crampons for icy trails.

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3. Stay Hydrated and Fueled

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Cold weather can suppress your thirst, but staying hydrated is crucial. Bring insulated bottles to prevent water from freezing and pack calorie-dense snacks like nuts, jerky, or energy bars to maintain energy levels.

For helpful tips for proper nutrition and hydration in the colder months, check out this blog post.

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4. Plan and Prepare

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Check the weather forecast before heading out and choose trails appropriate for winter conditions. Let someone know your itinerary and your expected return time. Carry a fully charged phone, a map, or a GPS device, and don’t rely solely on technology. Shorter daylight hours mean starting early is essential.

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5. Pack the Essentials

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Your winter hiking pack should include:

• Extra layers
• First aid kit
• Emergency blanket
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Fire-starting kit
• High-energy snacks
• Navigation tools
• Trekking poles (helpful for balance on snow and ice)

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6. Pace Yourself

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While a winter hike offers an opportunity to build endurance and strengthen your muscles, be aware that winter hiking requires more energy due to cold weather and challenging terrain. 

Listen to your body and take breaks as needed to avoid overexertion. Staying fit by maintaining regular exercise routines during the off-season can make your winter hikes more enjoyable.

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Winter hiking can be a fantastic way to stay fit and connect with nature during colder months. With proper preparation and the right mindset, you can safely explore and enjoy the beauty of winter trails. 

Happy hiking!

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When it comes to fitness, one of the most common struggles is finding a workout routine you actually enjoy.

Too often, we approach exercise as a chore rather than something to embrace. But what if working out could be a highlight of your day?

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Here’s how to fall in love with fitness and discover the workout that leaves you feeling happy and refreshed.

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Reflect on What You Love

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First take time to think about activities that bring you joy. Do you love dancing? Hiking in nature? Playing team sports? Use these as a starting point.

Consider also your personality. Are you someone who enjoys structure or freedom? Are you introverted or extroverted? Make a list of all of the physical activities you enjoy (or that you think you might enjoy)--gardening, running, dancing, cycling, rock climbing, martial arts, whatever you can think of!

Fitness doesn’t have to fit into a traditional mold. By aligning your workouts with what you already enjoy, you’re more likely to stick with them.

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Experiment with an Open Mind

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It’s okay to try a few things before finding your groove. In fact, Olympic gold medalist Lindsay Vonn recommends trying one new workout (at least 20 minutes long) every week for one month to help you explore and find something you might want to try again. 

Many gyms and studios offer free trials or drop-in classes that you can try out. If you haven’t already, sign up for your 14-day free trial with the Pietra Fitness Online Studio to get access to many different types of workouts that you can do right from the comfort of your home. 

If you dislike something, cross it off your list. If you enjoyed it, even a little bit, try it again the following week and go from there. 

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Set Goals that Inspire You

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Instead of focusing solely on weight loss or aesthetics, set goals that excite you. These could include:

• Running your first 5K
• Learning to do a handstand
• Mastering a challenging stretch
• Climbing a local peak

When your goals are tied to personal growth and achievement, they can be far more motivating.

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Focus on Fun, Not Perfection

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Let go of the idea that you need to excel at something for it to count. Your workouts don’t have to be Instagram-worthy—they just have to make you feel good.

Unsurprisingly, a study conducted by the Institute for Sport Science found that positive feelings experienced during a workout session “...provide[d] higher adherence to the training program”. ¹

In this study, positive feedback, individualized instructions, and variety in the workouts was used with the test group to create a more enjoyable environment and it made significant impact the participants' consistency with the program. 

Finding workouts you genuinely enjoy and feel good doing will help solidify fitness into a habit that will last the rest of your life. 

Falling in love with fitness is all about finding what resonates with you. By focusing on joy, curiosity, and personal growth, you can transform your relationship with exercise. 

Whether it’s dancing, climbing, or simply walking in the fresh air, the perfect workout for you is out there—and it’s waiting to become your new favorite habit

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Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit, for the Kingdom of God Is Theirs

Ah, fondest, blindest, weakest, I am He Whom thou seekest!

— Hound of Heaven by Francis Thompson

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Introduction

The world is constantly seeking to impose labels on us: liberal/conservative, Republican/Democrat, traditional/progressive, introvert/extrovert, etc. Sometimes these labels can be hurtful: loser, misfit, outcast, reject, weirdo, strange, different, uncool, unpopular, victim, and so on. While some labels may be positive or even meaningful, none of them define your essence. Being "poor in spirit" means the only label that matters is the one God gives you, your true identity, your God-given name.

Poor in Spirit = your God-given identity = His name for you

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The Human Condition

The human condition consists of three truths:

1. We all desire unspeakable happiness.

2. Many of us see others who seem happier than we are.

3. When we try to imitate them, it rarely brings us joy.

What gives?

• If you’re a Buddhist, the problem is your desire for happiness, and the solution is Nirvana: the elimination of all desire. This is "happiness," achieved through an eight-fold path.

• If you’re a cynic, the problem is that other people are pretending to be happier than they actually are. The solution is to expose their hypocrisy and prove you're better than them.

• If you’re a self-help enthusiast, the problem is that you've chosen the wrong system. The solution? Find the next guru who asks you to "Buy my book" or "join my community," where you'll find the happiness.

• If you’re a Christian, the problem is that you are uniquely made in the image and likeness of God, and you can’t conform to others’ ideas of happiness. The solution is to be the person God made you to be.

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How Do I Know Who God Made Me to Be?

Great question! Each of us is a mystery—an infinite depth we may never fully exhaust. However, we can learn a great deal about ourselves. The synthesis of this understanding is found in our name. Not necessarily the name given to us by our parents or at baptism, but the name God bestows upon us.

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Wait, Is That Even a Thing?

Yes. Consider these examples from Scripture:

• "He calls each star by name" (Ps. 147:4; see also Is. 40:26—here, "star" is a poetic term for a person).

• "I will give [the one who conquers] a white stone, and on the stone a new name written, which no one knows except the one who receives it" (Rev. 2:17).

• "No longer shall your name be Abram, but your name shall be Abraham" (Gen. 17:5).

• "You are Peter [Petrus/Cephas], and on this rock [Petra/Cephas] I will build My church" (Mt. 16:18; see also Gal. 2:9 and Jn. 1:42).

It’s clear: God has a unique name for each of us—a name that only He can reveal. The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms this:

"A name expresses a person’s essence and identity, and the meaning of this person’s life." (CCC 203)

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What Does That Mean?

A thing can be defined by its nature: dog, cat, chair, ball, tree, etc. A person, however, cannot. This is true even of the angels, each of whom is unique—so much so that every angel is considered its own "species" in Thomistic theology. For humans, we share a common nature as Homo sapiens, yet we are irreplaceable and irreproducible. Like snowflakes, no two humans are exactly alike.

Hidden within each of us is a mystery: our spirit, our essence, our "wyrd" (a Norse term for an individual's unique destiny or essence), our name.

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An Example

There was a young woman we’ll call Erin preparing to do missionary work on a college campus in America. Erin was struggling with past trauma and a deep sense of unworthiness. She said she "couldn’t pray."

To help her, we explored moments when she felt close to God, hoping to reignite her connection, but something still felt off.

Finally, I asked her, “Do you know who you are in God’s eyes?”

“No,” she replied.

“Then ask Him. Ask Him to tell you your real name.”

After a pause, she said, “I think it’s either ‘My Ruby’ or ‘My Little Ruby.’”

Notably, she had very red hair.

“How does that make you feel?” I asked.

“It just feels like me—like He knows me, loves me, and wants to be with me.”

“Do you need anything else?”

“I guess not.”

“Great. Then I guess we’re done here.”

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How Can I Learn My Name?

Just ask. The One who "called" you into existence is the only One who knows your name. Pray to Him:

Father, let me be one of the "poor in spirit" who rejects every label that doesn't come from You. Please show me my name, the name You call me by. Tell me my name. I know it’s a secret You hold in Your heart. Please share it with me so that I can live from it and not from all the labels the world seeks to place upon me. Father, what is Your name for me?

Hmm, it’s strange, but it seems like my God given name is: __________________

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‍And Then?

First, ask Him. Then own it. Then explore it. Hidden in your name is a mission—the meaning of your life.

For "Little Ruby," her mission was to shine forth and bring delight. She expressed this through performance dancing, but even more so through her way of being.

What about you? You may not know exactly what God created you to do, but know this: It’s hidden in your name. God the Father wants to reveal it to you. So ask Him. And live from it.

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With the short, dark days of winter, many of us feel a shift in our mood and energy levels. The lack of natural light can leave us feeling sluggish, irritable, or even depressed. 

But did you know that exposure to morning light can be a simple yet powerful way to boost your mental health and well-being? Here, we’ll explore the benefits of natural light, how it impacts your mental health, and practical tips for leveraging sunlight during the darker months.

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Why Morning Light Matters in Winter

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Natural light plays a crucial role in regulating your body’s internal clock, also known as the circadian rhythm. Your circadian rhythm influences your sleep-wake cycle, hormones, and overall energy levels. 

Morning light, in particular, is rich in blue wavelengths, which help signal to your brain that it’s time to wake up and be alert. This exposure suppresses melatonin production (the sleep hormone) and boosts serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation.

In winter, shorter days and longer nights mean less sunlight exposure overall. This can disrupt your circadian rhythm and lead to symptoms like fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and low mood. 

Morning light becomes even more critical during this time, as it can help counterbalance the effects of diminished daylight.

Studies have shown that consistent morning light exposure can:

• Improve sleep quality by helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
• Enhance your mood and reduce symptoms of depression, including Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
• Increase alertness and cognitive performance throughout the day.

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Practical Tips to Harness Morning Light

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1. Start Your Day Outdoors If possible, spend 20-30 minutes outside shortly after waking. Go for a walk, sip your coffee on the porch, or simply stand near a bright window. Even overcast skies provide beneficial light exposure.
   
   
2. Get Active in the Morning Physical activity enhances the benefits of light exposure. Combine light and movement by going for a brisk morning walk or stretching by a bright window.
   
   
3. Rearrange Your Living Space Position your desk or favorite chair near a window to maximize daylight exposure. Keep curtains or blinds open during the day to let natural light flood your home.
   
   
4. Use a Light Therapy Box A light therapy box mimics natural sunlight and can be an effective tool for combating winter blues. Look for one that emits 10,000 lux and use it for 20-30 minutes in the morning.
   
   
5. Maintain a Consistent Schedule Waking up and going to bed at the same time each day helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Pair this routine with morning light exposure for optimal results.

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While we can’t control the seasons, we can take proactive steps to protect our mental health during the winter months. By prioritizing morning light exposure, you’re giving yourself a natural, accessible tool to combat the challenges of darker days. 

So open the curtains or step outside—and let the power of morning light brighten your day, inside and out.

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The Church dedicates the entire month of January to the Holy Name of Jesus–“...name that is above every name” (Phillipians 2:9). What a way to kick off a new year!

Let’s dive into the history and significance of this devotion, as well as ways you can practice it in your home and community this month. 

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"In the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that are in heaven, on earth and under the earth" (Phil 2:10). 

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Everything about our Lord is Holy, including His name. The name of Jesus was chosen by God for His only Son; the angel Gabriel, acting as God’s messenger, announces it to Mary when he announces God’s plan for her. 

The ancients believed that a person’s name expressed his nature, work, or mission and Jesus’ name is no different. It means “Savior” and clearly communicates to each of us the salvific work He accomplished through His life, death, and resurrection. 

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The History of the Devotion

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This devotion originated with 12th-century Cistercian monks and nuns but grew in popularity particularly through Saint Bernardine of Siena, a 15th-century Franciscan. Known for his passionate love of the Holy Name, St. Bernardine promoted its reverence by encouraging the faithful to inscribe “IHS,” a monogram of Jesus’ name in Greek, in their homes, churches, and public spaces.

In 1721, Pope Innocent XIII extended the feast of the Holy Name of Jesus to the entire Church. Today, the memorial is celebrated on January 3, reminding us of the importance of honoring the name of Jesus in our words, prayers, and actions. Devotion to the Most Holy Name is encouraged all year long but especially throughout January. 

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The Power of the Holy Name

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The name of Jesus is not merely a word; it is a prayer, a shield, and a source of strength for Christians. 

Invoking the name of Jesus has been a powerful practice throughout Christian history, used to combat temptations, bring peace in moments of distress, and even drive out evil. It is a name filled with authority, power, and love—a name that unites heaven and earth.

Read what the Scripture, the Church, and her saints had to say about the Holy Name:

“Was it not through the brilliance and sweet savor of this name, that God called us into His marvelous light?” (St. Bernardine of Siena)

“The sweet name of Jesus produces in us holy thoughts, fills the soul with noble sentiments, strengthens virtue, and nourishes pure affections.” (St. Bernard of Clairvaux)

“Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

“O God, our Savior, come to our help. Come for the sake of the glory of Your name. O Lord, our God, forgive us our sins. Rescue us for the sake of Your Name.” (Psalm 78:9)

“All who dwell in the heavens, those who abide upon the earth, and every one of those who are held in the depths of hell, bow down prostrate to this Name. This is the Name which gave sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf, agility to the lame, speech to the mute, and life to the dead. The power of this name forced the mastery of the devil entirely from the bodies of the possessed.” (St. Peter Chrysologus)

“The name ‘Jesus’ contains all: God and man and the whole economy of creation and salvation. To pray ‘Jesus’ is to invoke him and to call him within us. His name is the only one that contains the presence it signifies. Jesus is the Risen One, and whoever invokes the name of Jesus is welcoming the Son of God who loved him and who gave himself up for him.” (CCC 2666)

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How to Honor the Most Holy Name of Jesus the Month

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Pray the Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus
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This beautiful litany allows you to meditate on the many titles and roles of Jesus, deepening your love and understanding of Him. 

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Each invocation calls to mind a different aspect of His life and mission. Praying this litany can be a daily practice throughout January, perhaps as part of your morning or evening prayers, or even with your family, fostering a spirit of devotion and unity in the home.

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Use the Jesus Prayer in Your Daily Life
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The Jesus Prayer—"Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner"—is a simple yet profound prayer rooted in the Christian tradition. It helps you keep Christ at the center of your thoughts and actions throughout the day. 

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Try repeating it during moments of stress, before making decisions, or even as you go about ordinary tasks like folding laundry or driving. This prayer can also be a tool for cultivating interior peace, as its rhythmic repetition helps quiet the mind and focus the heart on God.

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Speak the Name of Jesus Reverently
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In a world where the name of Jesus is often used casually or irreverently, Christians are called to speak His name with love and respect. 

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Make a conscious effort to pause and bow your head slightly whenever you say or hear His name, as a sign of reverence. Teach your children this practice as well, helping them to understand the sanctity of Jesus’ name. Additionally, consider beginning your prayers by saying His name slowly and intentionally, allowing it to draw your focus to His presence and love.

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Display a Christogram in Your Home

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Consider adorning your home with a Christogram, a visual representation of the Holy Name of Jesus that has been used throughout Christian history. The most well-known Christogram is the IHS monogram, derived from the first three letters of Jesus' name in Greek (ΙΗΣΟΥΣ). 

In addition to the IHS, there are other beautiful Christograms and symbols you might consider:

• Chi-Rho: An early Christian symbol formed by superimposing the first two letters of "Christ" in Greek (ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ).
• The Cross with the Name of Jesus: Sometimes, crosses feature the Holy Name or a Christogram at the center, emphasizing the connection between Jesus’ identity and His sacrifice.
• The Sacred Heart with the Name of Jesus: A devotional image combining the Holy Name with Christ's heart, symbolizing His love and mercy.

Displaying these symbols in your home—whether as wall art, a decorative plaque, or even embroidered on fabric—serves as a daily reminder of your faith and devotion to Jesus. Place the Christogram in a prominent area, such as above a prayer space, near a family altar, or at your entryway, as a testament to your love and reverence for His Holy Name.

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Share the Devotion with Others

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The Holy Name of Jesus is a devotion meant to be shared, as it reminds us of the universal call to honor and proclaim Christ’s name. Consider organizing a small prayer group at your parish to pray the Litany of the Holy Name together. 

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You might also share resources, such as holy cards or articles, that explain the significance of this devotion. Even a simple act like displaying a Christogram or discussing the beauty of the Holy Name with friends can plant seeds of faith and inspire others to draw closer to Jesus.

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This January, let the Holy Name of Jesus inspire and transform your life. Whether you whisper His name in a moment of need, meditate on His name in prayer, or simply pause to bow your head in reverence when you hear it spoken, allow this devotion to deepen your relationship with Christ.

This month, let us call upon the name of Jesus often and with great love, trusting in His power and mercy to guide us into the new year and beyond.

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I will lead the blind on their journey;

By paths unknown I will guide them.

I will turn darkness into light before them,

And make crooked ways straight.¬—Is 42:16

Promises are only as strong as the person who gives them.—Stephen Richards

Promises, Promises

The most important moments of our lives are made from promises. We promise when we get married. The more romantic among us may promise even before we’re married, perhaps even symbolizing that promise with a ring. We promise if we change our nationality. We promise if we join the military or government service. We promise if we start a business. We promise if we borrow money. We promise when our child is baptized. If we’re baptized as an adult, we promise. “I Promise…” there may be no more powerful set of words.

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Where the Beatitudes Come from

One could argue that the most important part of the Gospels is God’s promises, also known as the Beatitudes: The Father’s promises of blessing to the Christ-like. You are precious to Him.

“God, infinitely perfect and blessed in Himself, in a plan of sheer goodness freely created [you] to make [you] share in his own blessed life.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1)

The beatitudes come from the Father’s heart. They are revealed to our hearts and reveal His heart to us.

“You poured down, O God, a generous rain:

when your people were starved you gave them new life.

It was there that your people found a home,

Prepared in your goodness, O God, for the poor” --(Ps 68:9-10)

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Christ, the Man of Beatitude

There was one man who was true man, who was truly happy and showed us the path to happiness. His name was Jesus, and some have called the Beatitudes His self-portrait. He didn’t just speak the Beatitudes; He lived them. He incarnated them in His own flesh. He walked this earth as a Living Beatitude.

“Christ fully reveals man to himself and brings to light his most high calling”, the calling to beatitude. (Second Vatican Council, Lumen Gentium, 22) The beatitudes are not directives, but they are directional. They are not duties, but they are destiny. They are not ethics, but they are ethos. They show us how we’re made and what we’re made for, in the image and likeness of God, meant for transforming, intimate union with the Trinity. They are a sword that cuts through the Gordian Knot of our existence to the truth about us and our true happiness. “The Word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword.” (Heb 4:12) The beatitudes show us ourselves in the light of Christ.

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Who the Beatitudes Might Be For

The world is always promising us happiness… and always failing to deliver on its promise. “One aspect of becoming a Christian is having to leave behind what everyone else thinks and wants in order to enter the light of the truth of our being, and aided by that light to find the right path,” the path to true happiness. (Benedict XVI in Jesus of Nazareth: The Infancy Narratives, p. 67)

The Beatitudes are not for those who profess themselves happy now. They are not for those who have life figured out. They are a song calling home those who are struggling, the burdened, the confused, those who wish life was better, different somehow, but not really sure how.

Have you ever made a gratitude list and still not felt grateful? Maybe you even felt worse than before? Have you ever asked, “Why can’t… bring me happiness?” Have you ever told yourself, “I have… I should be happy”? Or have you ever hit the wall and said, “This isn’t working!” without quite knowing what “this” is… except maybe your whole life? Then maybe the Beatitudes are for you.

Maybe they can be for you a light shining in the darkness, dispelling the mists of mythical happiness. It’s possible they can be for you a compass pointing to True North, enabling you to get your bearings no matter where you are in life. No matter what is happening around you. No matter what anybody else says. No matter what has happened in the past. No matter what will happen in the future. No matter what your own thoughts or feelings are telling you. No matter what the Enemy is whispering or shouting in your ear.

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Pilgrims of Hope

Pope Francis has declared 2025 a Jubilee under the motto “Pilgrims of Hope.” We are certainly wandering. If we had some definite direction, some hope, our wandering could become pilgrimage. And even our pilgrimage to joy could become more joyful. So let us close with a prayer of hope:

Father, I need your Blessing in my life.

Jesus, show me the Way.

Holy Spirit, come and live your Life in me.

Holy Trinity, make your promises come to life in me.

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The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and celebration—but it’s also one of the busiest times of the year. 

Between shopping for gifts, attending gatherings, and preparing festive meals, it’s easy to let your fitness routine take a back seat. 

Yet staying active during the holidays isn’t just about maintaining physical health—it’s also a great way to manage stress, boost energy, and keep your mind focused amidst the seasonal hustle.

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‍The Benefits of Moving Your Body

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Even a short burst of activity can make a big difference. Studies show that exercise can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance focus—all things we could use when managing long to-do lists! During the holidays, exercise doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym. Quick, intentional workouts can help you stay on track without derailing your already packed schedule.

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Why Quick Workouts Work

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The beauty of quick workouts is their efficiency. With formats like high-intensity interval training (HIIT), bodyweight circuits, or stretching flows, you can get a full-body workout in just 15–20 minutes. These routines are perfect for squeezing into your day—whether it’s early in the morning, during a lunch break, or even while waiting for the holiday cookies to bake.

Short workouts are also easier to commit to; instead of skipping exercise entirely because you can’t fit in an hour-long session, you can focus on quality over quantity. 

Consistency matters more than duration, and a few minutes of movement each day can help maintain your fitness and create a healthy holiday habit.

Need some help building up this consistent habit? Read our tips for keeping up with exercise during the holiday season.

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A Gift to Yourself

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Remember, staying active during the holidays is not just about burning calories—it’s a way to take care of your mental and emotional health too. 

Carving out a few minutes to move each day can help you feel more present, energized, and ready to enjoy all the special moments this season brings.

Pietra Fitness Online Studio offers a variety of effective workouts you can do in 15 minutes or less, so you can stay active no matter how busy your holiday schedule gets!

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Please note, you must be logged into the Online Studio to view these classes. If you are not yet a member, click here to sign up for your 14-day free trial and get started!

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Chair: 15 min. Arms & Shoulders

Strengthening your arms and shoulders improves your ability to perform everyday tasks, from carrying groceries to lifting your kids. Focused arm and shoulder exercises also help enhance posture, upper body stability, and joint health.

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This 15 minute class focuses on strengthening these important muscles all while sitting in a chair, making it simple to do even in a small home.

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Body Weight Arms & Shoulders
Similarly, this Gentle/Intermediate level class focuses on strengthening your arms and shoulders but this time without any extra props or weights. 

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Using your body weight, rather than equipment, to strengthen your arms builds functional strength, balance, and stability by engaging multiple muscle groups. It also reduces injury risk, improves form and control, and offers the convenience of working out anytime, anywhere, without the need for equipment.

12 Min. Leg Burn

Strong legs are the foundation of overall body strength and mobility. Leg-focused workouts not only improve balance, endurance, and power but also support movements like walking, running, and climbing stairs.

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Our 12 minute Leg Burn class targets the major muscle groups of the legs–glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves–keeping you ready for the fun and action of the holiday season.

Resistance Chest and Shoulders 

Building strength in the chest and shoulders helps with pushing movements, lifting, and maintaining good posture. These exercises also promote shoulder stability and help prevent injuries related to everyday activities.

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This Intermediate level class challenges these muscles and can be modified for your fitness level.

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Core Power

A strong core is essential for maintaining balance, stability, and proper posture. Core workouts help protect your back, improve functional movements, and enhance overall strength, making everything from sitting to exercising more efficient. This short, but advanced class uses non-stop strengthening moves to help you enjoy all of the benefits of a strong core without spending hours at the gym.

Cardio Blast

Cardio workouts boost heart health, increase stamina, and improve your body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently. Regular cardio helps manage stress, improve sleep, and keep energy levels high during busy days, which makes this 11-minute class the perfect option during this crazy season!

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From Home: Hip Hinges & Hamstrings

Focusing on hip hinges and hamstrings improves flexibility, strength, and the health of your lower back. These exercises help with movements like bending, lifting, and maintaining proper alignment during physical activities.

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This 11-minute class not only focuses on these muscles, but also incorporates movements that also provide a great full-body workout. Well worth your time!

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Upper Body Blast

Upper body strength supports tasks that involve pushing, pulling, or lifting. Focusing on your upper body enhances muscle tone, improves posture, and helps prevent injuries by maintaining balanced strength and stability.

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In this speedy class, you will perform a wide variety of exercises to tone and strengthen the muscles in the upper body, including the core muscles.

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Looking for even shorter workouts to help you prioritize physical fitness this month? Find our list of micro-workouts here.

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Staying active during the holidays doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By focusing on quick, targeted workouts, you can maintain your fitness, boost your energy, and manage holiday stress. 

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Remember, every small effort counts, and prioritizing movement is a gift you give to yourself. With Pietra Fitness Online Studio, you can stay strong, healthy, and ready to enjoy all the joys of Christmastide. 

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With endless to-do lists, packed calendars, and high expectations, the most wonderful time of the year can easily turn into the most stressful time of the year.

Yet, the beauty of this season lies not in perfection but in peace—peace that comes from rest, prayer, and balance. Let’s explore how you can find calm amidst the holiday hustle.

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Prioritize Rest

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The excitement of the holidays can make it tempting to overcommit, but rest is essential for your physical and emotional well-being.

• Embrace the power of saying no. You don’t have to attend every event or meet every expectation. Choose the commitments that matter most to you and your family.
• Stick to a sleep schedule. With late-night parties and early-morning preparations, it’s easy to skimp on sleep. Prioritize 7–8 hours of rest to stay energized and focused.
• Incorporate downtime. Whether it’s a cozy evening with a book, a family movie night, or a walk in nature, schedule time to unwind.

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Ground Yourself in Prayer

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In the midst of busy schedules, prayer is a powerful anchor. It reminds us of the true meaning of the season and gives us strength to handle its demands.

• Begin your day with prayer. Even five minutes in the morning can set a peaceful tone for the day. Reflect on the blessings in your life and ask for guidance as you navigate your responsibilities.
• Incorporate Advent devotions. The Advent season offers rich spiritual practices like lighting an Advent wreath, praying the “O Antiphons,” or reading Scripture. These can help you focus on Christ amidst the chaos.
• Turn moments of stress into prayer. When you feel overwhelmed, pause to take a deep breath and offer up a quick prayer for patience and peace.

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Strike a Balance

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Balance is key to navigating the holiday season with grace.

• Set realistic expectations. The perfect holiday doesn’t exist. Instead of striving for Instagram-worthy décor or elaborate meals, focus on creating meaningful moments with loved ones.
• Delegate tasks. Don’t try to do it all yourself! Involve family members in shopping, decorating, or meal prep to share the load.
• Budget mindfully. Financial stress can be a significant burden during the holidays. Set a realistic budget for gifts, travel, and festivities, and stick to it.

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Focus on What Matters Most

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It’s easy to get caught up in the commercialism of the season, but don’t let it overshadow the true meaning of the holidays– the gift of the Incarnation. 

• Spend time with loved ones. Simple traditions, like baking cookies together or sharing stories around the dinner table, create lasting memories.
• Give back. Volunteering or supporting a charitable cause can shift your focus outward and remind you of the joy of giving.
• Reflect on the season's spiritual significance. Keep your heart focused on the deeper meaning.

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Practice Self-Care

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Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s necessary.

• Stay active. Even short walks or gentle stretching can release tension and boost your mood. Pietra Fitness even offers some Advent-specific workouts to help you move your body, still your mind, and enter more fully into the Church season.
• Nourish your body. While holiday treats are part of the fun, balance them with wholesome meals to maintain your energy.
• Seek support. If you’re feeling particularly stressed or lonely, reach out to friends, family, or a trusted community for encouragement and connection.

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The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and connection, not a source of anxiety. By prioritizing rest, grounding yourself in prayer, and maintaining balance, you can create a season filled with peace and purpose. 

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Take a deep breath, step back, and let the peace of the Christ fill your heart this season.

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