Essential Holiday Wellness Tips for a Joyous Season

Troy Sissom

Embracing the Holiday Hustle with Health in Mind

As the holiday season envelops us in its warm embrace of festivities and family gatherings, it's easy to let our health routines take a backseat. Yet, taking simple, intentional steps towards wellness can make the season not just joyful, but also healthier. Let’s explore how you can smoothly integrate wellness into your holiday bustle.

Physical Wellness: Simple Steps to Sustain

Keep your body energized by staying hydrated and maintaining regular meal times, even amidst busy schedules. Simple activities like short indoor walks or morning stretches can invigorate your day. If travel is part of your holiday, pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up. Ensure a consistent sleep schedule; something as simple as drinking water before your morning coffee can set the right tone for the day.

Flu Wellness: Staying Vigilant

With December through February marking the peak of flu season, it’s crucial to take preventive measures. Last year, flu resulted in over 47 million illnesses, 610,000 hospitalizations, and sadly, 216 pediatric deaths. Despite these numbers, only 43% of adults received the flu vaccine. It’s not too late to prioritize getting vaccinated—particularly for children, seniors, and those with health concerns.

Mental Wellness: Maintaining Balance

The holiday rush can take a toll on mental health, with 79% of U.S. adults feeling stressed, and more than half needing weeks to recover post-holiday. Remember, self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Find your calm with practical resets like a 10-minute solo walk, journaling, or simply saying “no” to an extra commitment. These small steps can significantly reduce stress and keep you centered.

Give Yourself the Gift of Wellness

This holiday season, wellness can be the greatest gift you give yourself and your loved ones. Small changes—like staying hydrated, getting vaccinated, or taking a moment for yourself—can lead to big benefits. Should you find yourself in need of guidance, consider reaching out to a health plan representative for support. Wishing you a joyful, restful, and healthy holiday!