Holiday Wellness Tips for a Healthier Season

The holiday season is a wonderful time of celebration, connection, and tradition. It can also be one of the busiest times of the year, making it easy for healthy routines to slip away. The good news? Staying well doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. A few simple, intentional habits can help you enjoy the season more fully while feeling your best.

Mental Wellness

The holidays can take a real toll on emotional well-being. In fact, 79% of U.S. adults report feeling stressed during this season, and more than half say it takes them weeks to recover afterward. Remember—self-care isn’t selfish. Small resets like a 10-minute solo walk, jotting down your thoughts, or kindly declining extra commitments can make a meaningful difference. Staying connected with supportive friends and loved ones can also help ease the mental load.

Flu Wellness

Flu season typically peaks between December and February, and last year alone saw more than 47 million illnesses, 610,000 hospitalizations, and 216 pediatric deaths. Despite these numbers, only 43% of adults received a flu shot. It’s not too late to get vaccinated, and doing so helps protect you and those who are most vulnerable—kids, older adults, and anyone with underlying health concerns. Flu vaccines are updated each year, and getting the most recent one offers the best protection against current strains.

Physical Wellness

Staying active and nourished can go a long way during the holidays. Make an effort to stay hydrated and eat regular meals to avoid energy crashes. Simple movement—like pacing during phone calls, stretching in the morning, or taking a short indoor walk—can boost your mood and immune health. If you’re traveling, keep healthy snacks on hand and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Even small habits, like drinking water before your morning coffee, can help keep your body balanced.

Wellness is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones this season. Even the smallest changes can create meaningful benefits. If you ever need guidance or have questions about staying healthy this time of year, consider reaching out to a health plan representative for support.

Wishing you a joyful, restful, and healthy holiday season ahead.