The Holiday Season is a time for giving, including supporting causes and organizations that make our communities stronger. 

In this spirit, Maui physical therapist Tiffany Prangnell shares some holiday giving suggestions which offer a more healthful return than simply writing a check. 

“As a physical therapist, my goal is to improve lives and the community by helping people move better and live healthier, more active lives,” said Prangnell, owner of Imua Physical Therapy in Kihei, Lahaina and Wailuku. 

“It’s based on this that I thought to offer some ideas for how people can give back to their communities while, at the same time, also benefiting from various levels of physical activity.” 

Such an approach to holiday giving, Prangnell adds, isn’t just about contributing to one’s 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, as recommended by the Department of Health and Human Services. 

“The holidays are a pretty stressful time for a lot of people, especially after such a taxing year, and exercise is a proven way to reduce stress and anxiety while improving overall happiness,” Prangnell said. “It just so happens giving and volunteering provide similar health benefits. Put them together, and you’re likely to experience a more joyful and relaxing holiday season.” 

That said, Prangnell suggests the five ways (below) to give back and be fit this Holiday Season. Of course, as you follow one or more of these suggestions, be sure to wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

Volunteer ‘Sweat Equity’

There are lots of ways to volunteer during the holidays, and many involve various levels of physical activity. Collecting gift donations for a local children’s charity, for instance, or helping sort and deliver food donations for a food pantry, requires time, muscle and (if it’s a charitable year) good endurance. An excellent local organization to get involved with is Angel Tree, a nonprofit dedicated toward providing gifts to children with one or more incarcerated parents. 

Lend a Neighbor a Hand

Most of us have neighbors who could use a helping hand on occasion, be they elderly, disabled, alone, or short on time or money. The holidays are a great time to check in with them and see if they could use some help with physical tasks like yardwork, putting out Christmas decorations, or even childcare.  

Walk Your Best Friends

Are animals your passion? Perfect! Animals need exercise just like people do, and most animal shelters welcome volunteers eager to play with and walk the dogs and cats. Not only is walking great exercise for both people and pets, but spending time with animals can also lower stress and blood pressure. Contact the Maui Humane Society for ways you can volunteer this holiday season. 

Arm Your Smartphone

Worried about interaction with charity events or volunteer activities and exposure to Covid 19? You still have options. Some smartphone apps exist (Charity Miles is the most prominent) that allow you to convert workout miles and/or daily activity into donations to reputable nonprofit organizations. 

“Of course, if one or more of these ideas sounds appealing, but discomfort, pain or a movement limitation is holding you back from giving back in this way, come by the physical therapy clinic.” Prangnell said. “We can assess the issue and put you on a path toward being more active – both physically and as a contributor to your community.”