As we approach the holidays and the conversation and wine start flowing, family bonding over food becomes as easy as pie.  With kids home from school on vacation, we've called on Rupa Mehta for tips to make family bonding over exercise and health just as fun - and with less calories!

Called a “pint-sized guru” by VOGUE Magazine and the “Rachel Ray of Fitness” by the New York Post, Rupa is the CEO of Nalini Method, Author of Connect to Your One and Founder of NaliniKIDS, a non-profit sponsored by Mayor Bloomberg and NYC Service that is dedicated to the wellness education of our future generation through personalized social outreach programs.

1. Connect To Your Body

Fit contests: Why not harness the naturally competitive spirit of kids with a push-up or plank contest?  Be sure to give extra points for proper form.  Different plank modifications, such as bending and straightening legs, are fun ways to keep it interesting! You'll push your body harder than ever with group motivation!

2. Connect To Your Mind

Emotional Exercise: We're all aware of America's growing obesity epidemic, but we often don't pay attention to emotional obesity.  A healthy mind is just as important (and actually leads to) a healthy body.  Try writing down five words that make your child feel "emotionally heavy," and discuss the importance of focusing on using positive words instead.  Your mind will learn something new!

3. Connect To Your Heart

Volunteer: Volunteering is one of the best ways to teach kids the importance of giving back, particularly during the holidays.  Try a family-friendly activity, like helping out at a soup kitchen. Your heart will be filled with joy!

About NaliniKIDS

The NaliniKIDS mission is to connect youth to their greatest bodies, minds and hearts.  Founded by Rupa Mehta and sponsored by Mayor Bloomberg and NYC Service, NaliniKIDS is in its third year at MS 354.  The NaliniKIDS curriculum involves the first-ever combination of emotional literacy skills development and physical fitness training, teaching at-risk youth how to achieve emotional and physical strength. To learn more, go to http://nalinikids.org/