9 Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season
The holidays are right around the corner. This time of year is typically all about heading home, and enjoying some quality time with loved ones. But, if you want to have a healthy holiday it’s crucial you take some precautions this year.
It’s no doubt covid has changed the way we celebrate. We encourage you to spend time with your families and loved ones this year, even if those celebrations may look different.
With covid still running rampant, there’s an increased emphasis on practicing health and wellness during the holidays this year. Whether you’re going home for the holidays, or staying in, here are 9 tips to remember for a healthy holiday this season:
1. Meet virtually with people who cannot attend
It’s likely that holiday gatherings will be a lot smaller than we are used to this year. The pandemic may have some people opting to stay home rather than getting together. These extra precautions will help them stay safe, but there’s no doubt it will cause them to miss out on quality time.
But, don’t let this keep you all from enjoying the holidays together. Schedule a zoom call where you can all get together. Maybe even try having a virtual secret santa where you all mail each other the gifts ahead of time. Then, on the day of the gathering you can meet virtually and open them together.
Just because the holidays look different this year, doesn’t mean you can’t still partake in your traditions!
2. Create new traditions
At the beginning of the pandemic we saw many people start doing drive-by gatherings. Whether it be for birthdays, graduations, or weddings—people did their best to implement socially distant celebrations. If you’re not able to go home for the holidays and see your family this year, try having a socially distanced drive-by with friends who are staying in town.
Oftentimes, the holidays are a time where more people come together so this could be a great way to meet some of your neighbors who you may not know as well. Whatever new traditions you want to create, they’re sure to help you enjoy the holidays.
3. Turn your home into a winter wonderland!
If you have to stay at home, use the money you would’ve spent on travel to turn your house into a cozy winter wonderland! This is the perfect way to have a healthy holiday at home, while still enjoying all the festive season has to offer.
Be sure to set up your favorite holiday movie, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and do everything you can to get into the spirit.
4. Have a healthy holiday
I know during the holidays it can be really easy to fall off the bandwagon when it comes to health and fitness. You should definitely give yourself grace during the holidays, but still prioritize your health.
Do what your body needs to maintain your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. The holidays aren’t always easy. Though people say it’s the most wonderful time of the year, many suffer from holiday blues. Checkout for 5 ways on how to manage your mental health during the holidays. Your wellness during the holidays is important, so be sure to prioritize yourself this season.
5. Enjoy who you are with
Maybe you aren’t able to see everyone you thought you would this season. But that doesn’t mean you should stop enjoying the holidays! Embrace who you do get to see this year, and remember how great it is to have the opportunity to spend uninterrupted time together.
It may not be what we’re used to, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make the most of it!
6. Be mindful about managing your stress
Between holiday shopping, planning gatherings (whether virtual or in-person)—this time of year can become stressful. According to AllOneHealth, 69% of people are stressed about not having enough time to get things done during the holidays. If you don’t take a moment to give yourself a break, you could easily burn yourself out.
Rather than let the stress of all the outside factors get to you, really focus on your mental wellness this season. Remember the holidays are all about appreciating the people you have around you to celebrate.
7. Make sure your up-to date with your vaccinations
If you’re planning on meeting up with family, don’t forget to get your vaccines! Along with the covid vaccines, it’s important that anyone over the age of 6 is up-to-date with their flu shots.
Do your part and keep your loved ones safe this holiday season!
8. Monitor the children in your life
The holidays mean new toys for lots of kids out there. It’s important to remember to keep potentially dangerous toys out of the hands of young children.
Also, if your child suffers from severe food allergies it’s important to make sure you monitor what they’re eating. With all the temptations surrounding children, it’s important you keep a close eye to avoid any dangerous situations. If your child has an epi-pen or important medications, don’t forget to bring those along if you’re traveling for the season.
9. Check in on older loved ones
The holidays are often one of the few times families get together. If you have older family members or loved ones, it’s important you do a check-in on their health. Make sure you’re aware of what tasks they are able to perform independently, and what may require more monitoring.
Oftentimes elderly individuals are hesitant to ask for what they need or they don’t realize it. Maybe they need to see a doctor for a new problem that’s surfaced, or just need a little extra help getting their groceries. Whatever it is, do your part in making sure they’re safe and taken care of.
All of us age differently and it’s important we have the resources we need to live safely. This holiday season when you’re spending time with your loved ones, don’t forget to check-in on the older people in your life and make sure they have what they need.
Need help finding a good healthcare provider for your older loved ones? Checkout Connect2Heal and find the healthcare provider that best suits your family’s needs.
