Your guide to staying healthy this holiday season

The holiday season brings joy, tradition, travel, and time with the people we love. But it also brings crowded gatherings, busy schedules, and stress that can take a toll on our health. To help you navigate it all with confidence, here are some simple, practical tips to keep you feeling your best.

Let’s break it down into quick, easy-to-use sections you can come back to all season long.

We’re around more people than usual this time of year, at parties, concerts, shopping trips, and family events. A few small habits go a long way in keeping you feeling your best during the season.

If you’re sick, sit this one out
Staying home when you’re not feeling well helps protect everyone.

Keep germs at bay

• Wash hands often
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay current on vaccinations

Look out for the vulnerable
Older adults, babies, and those with chronic conditions are more likely to get seriously ill. A little extra awareness goes a long way in keeping them healthy and safe.

There’s no doubt that the holidays can disrupt our regular routines. Maintaining a few core habits will strengthen your immune system and help you feel more energized.

Sleep matters
Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule when you can.

Hydration helps more than you think
Carry water with you when traveling or shopping.

Aim for balance at mealtime
Enjoy holiday favorites while mixing in nutrient-rich foods.

Keep moving
Short walks, easy stretching, and light activity can reduce stress and support energy levels.

Stay on top of your care

• Take medications as prescribed
• Keep preventive visits on the calendar

Consistency in your routine now can help prevent problems later.

The holidays are meaningful, but for many, they can also be overwhelming. It’s important to focus on simple, realistic ways to protect your mental health.

Give yourself permission to slow down
It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to rest. You don’t need to do everything all at once. Be sure you’re taking time for yourself and allowing yourself to be in the moment with those you care about most.

Stay connected to people who lift you up
A quick phone call or text can help ease loneliness and keep you grounded. Reach out to someone and let them know you’re thinking about them. This can be a difficult time of year for many, and we all want to feel connected.

Try small mindfulness moments
A deep breath. A pause of gratitude. A short walk. Whatever it is that resonates with you, I encourage you to make time for those moments to reconnect with yourself.

These quick resets can shift your whole day.

Whether you’re flying across the country or driving a few hours, travel adds stress and can introduce new health challenges.

Prep before you go

• Refill prescriptions
• Pack all medications and medical supplies
• Keep health information handy
• Check in with your provider if you have chronic health conditions

Protect yourself while traveling

• Wash hands frequently
• Stay hydrated
• Build in time to stretch or walk on long travel days

Small habits make a big difference when you’re on the move.

This season can bring up a wide range of emotions for people. If you know someone who may be missing loved ones or feeling isolated, reaching out can mean more than you realize. Caring for one another, either through big gestures or small ones, is at the heart of what makes the holidays meaningful.