’Tis the Season… for Sore Backs and Stiff Necks
November kicks off the start of holiday prep season: lifting heavy boxes of decorations, rearranging furniture for guests, long hours in the kitchen, and maybe even an early trip out of town. While it’s a time filled with excitement and tradition, it also brings with it a wave of physical strain most people don’t even notice—until their back starts aching or their shoulders tighten up.
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or just pulling holiday bins out of the garage, being more mindful of your movement can help reduce soreness and avoid strain.
The Problem Isn’t Just the Heavy Lifting
Sure, hauling bins or rearranging your guest room can be tough on your back—but it’s often the small, repetitive tasks that quietly cause trouble. Reaching overhead to hang lights, standing on your feet for hours while baking, bending over gift bags or luggage—these activities seem harmless until your body starts to protest.
The key is remembering that your posture and form matter, even for things that don’t feel like “exercise.”
Protect Your Body with Simple Holiday Prep Habits
To help you enjoy the season without the physical toll, keep these small but powerful tips in mind:
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Lift smart: Bend your knees—not your back—when picking up bins, boxes, or groceries
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Change positions often: Don’t stay in one position (like standing at the counter or sitting wrapping gifts) for too long
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Take micro-breaks: Stretch or walk for 2–3 minutes every 30–60 minutes when prepping, cooking, or decorating
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Use both arms: Whether carrying shopping bags or suitcases, keep things balanced to avoid pulling one side of your body
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Plan ahead: Spread tasks out over days instead of trying to do everything in one weekend
Staying Present Through the Season
The holidays can be joyful—but they’re also busy, and often physically demanding in ways we don’t expect. Giving your body a little extra support through better movement habits can help you feel more relaxed, mobile, and ready to enjoy time with the people who matter most.
The content in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before trying new healthcare protocols.
Riley Dodd D.C.
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