Holiday Wellness Guide: 4 Ways To Stay Healthy This Holiday Season
The holidays are full of joy, family gatherings, and festive meals, but they can also bring stress, busy schedules, and unexpected health challenges. From staying active in chilly weather to managing indulgent meals and long days of travel, it’s easy to let healthy habits slip. The good news: with a few smart strategies, you can keep your body and mind in balance all season long.
1. Balance Rest, Stress, & Self-Compassion
The holidays are also stressful. Mayo Clinic recommends:
- Make a flexible plan (don’t overcommit).
- Recognize that some days will be harder, try to respond kindly to yourself.
- Ensure you get quality sleep, even when your schedule shifts.
Source: newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org
2. Move (Even a Little) Every Day
Physical activity is one of your strongest defenses during the holiday hustle. The CDC emphasizes that even brief bursts of movement, walking laps, parking farther from entrances, climbing stairs, can contribute positively to health and weight maintenance.
When you’re traveling or attending events, invite friends or family to join you on a walk. Staying active helps with mood, digestion, and managing indulgences.
Source: cdc.gov
Body Glide tip: Even in winter, chafing can be a problem, layers of clothing, heavier fabrics, and cold-weather sweat can all cause irritation. Apply Body Glide on friction-prone areas (underarms, thighs, bra lines, etc.) before heading out. Check out our article on winter chafing for tips to stay comfortable all season.
3. Prioritize Immune Health & Illness Prevention
Winter means more viral illnesses. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated (flu, COVID-19, RSV where applicable) as a first line of defense.
Also:
- If you feel unwell, skip gatherings.
- Wash your hands, cover coughs, and practice good hygiene when handling food or being in close quarters.
- Limit overlapping large gatherings in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces.
- Take advantage of testing for respiratory illnesses if you’ll be around vulnerable family members.
Source: cdc.gov
4. Eat Smart, Don’t Starve
It’s tempting to skip meals to “save room” for the big dinner, but Mayo Clinic’s guidance recommends not skipping breakfast and maintaining balanced meals throughout the day.
Here are a few smart-swap strategies:
- Use a smaller plate at buffets (Mayo Clinic’s Dr. Presutti suggests this to trick your brain into feeling satisfied with less).
- Serve yourself vegetables and lean protein first, then pick a small portion of richer dishes.
- Bring a healthy dish to gatherings so you know at least one option will support your goals.
Source: mayoclinichealthsystem.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you still chafe in cold weather?
A: Yes you can still chafe in cold weather. Even in freezing temps, sweat, bulky clothing, and extra layers can rub against skin and cause irritation. Body Glide forms a dry, invisible barrier that keeps skin protected so you can stay active comfortably all winter long.
Q: How can I manage holiday stress and still enjoy the season?
A: Plan realistically, avoid overcommitting, and make time for rest. Mayo Clinic notes that self-compassion and quality sleep are key to reducing stress.
Q: What’s the best way to avoid getting sick at holiday gatherings?
A: The CDC recommends vaccinations, frequent handwashing, and skipping events if you feel unwell. Testing before visiting vulnerable family members is also encouraged.
