The holiday season is a time of connection and celebration, bringing loved ones together during the colder months. Amid the excitement, healthy routines are disrupted. As we enter this festive time of year, it is essential to reflect on ways to maintain and protect our health. Below are four practical tips for staying healthy throughout the season. 

Stay Active 

During winter, it can be tempting to let movement and fitness routines slip. However, physical activity supports both physical and mental health. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans encourage everyone to move more and sit less, emphasizing that any movement is better than none.¹ 

Here are strategies for staying active: 

• Try convenient, at-home workouts. Find an online fitness program to try on your own or with loved ones. You can find free exercise videos on many platforms, such as YouTube. 
• Make movement part of social time. Take a post-meal group walk with those around you. This activity provides an opportunity to get fresh air while having meaningful conversations. 
• Listen to your body and know your limits. Cold weather and preparing for the holidays can have unexpected effects on your health, so make sure to take breaks when needed. 

Eat Healthy 

Festive foods are a holiday highlight, but the abundance of rich dishes can lead to overeating. The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasize balanced, nutrient-dense eating across all food groups—fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy.² 

Here are strategies for eating healthy: 

• Make healthy eating choices. Start with fruits and vegetables to balance your plate. Choose smaller portions of calorie-dense or sugary holiday favorites. USDA’s MyPlate offers helpful guidance.³ 
• Practice mindful eating. Take breaks during your meals to talk with others. Slow, mindful eating allows time for your body to digest food, helping you know when you are full. 
• Bring a healthier dish to contribute to holiday events. You can still have your favorite foods, especially when made in nutritious ways. Look online for healthier recipes for seasonal treats. 

Manage Stress 

While the holiday season brings much joy and excitement, it can also cause high levels of stress and anxiety. The holiday season brings joy and excitement, however, it can also cause high levels of stress and anxiety.  Some individuals also experience a sense of social isolation in this time.  It is important to manage your stress levels and focus on self-care before and during these times. 

Here are strategies for managing stress: 

• Set boundaries with your time and energy. Protect your time and energy by saying no when needed. Rest is vital. 
• Plan ahead for commitments and activities when possible. Creating a schedule for holiday events can prevent unexpected changes and confusion. 

• Create relaxing surroundings. Maintain a serene environment through overwhelming times by simply turning on music or lighting a candle. Small relaxing habits can help reduce anxiety.⁴ 
• Reach out to those you trust.  For those feeling socially isolated, reaching out to those you trust, including supportive acquaintances and groups, can be important.  Avoid assuming others do not want to hear from you.
• For more tips on minimizing holiday stress, visit the Mayo Clinic’s article here. 

Get Vaccinated 

Holiday gatherings also bring increased exposure to viruses and seasonal illnesses. In addition to handwashing and minimizing contact with people who are sick, staying up to date on vaccinations—especially influenza and COVID-19—helps protect you and your community. 

Here is helpful information for staying vaccinated: 

• Get yearly vaccines. Visit your health provider or a local clinic to get your influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. Staying updated on vaccines protects more than simply you, but also family, friends, and others. Visit EasyVax to find a local pharmacy and schedule an immunization appointment here. 
• Know your vaccinations. To check your immunization records, visit the Michigan Immunization Portal here. 
• Protect your loved ones. Ensure children and family members are up-to-date on vaccines. Childhood vaccine schedules and “catch-up” schedules are available through public health resources. 

Conclusion 

The holidays should be a joyful time with family and friends. While seasonal demands can challenge our routines, small, intentional choices can make a meaningful difference in your health and well-being. By staying active, eating mindfully, managing stress, and keeping vaccinations up to date, you can enjoy the season while protecting both yourself and those around you. As we celebrate, have hope for the season and reflect on the positive moments of this year. Let us embrace healthy habits that support strong, thriving communities. 

For additional tips about health in the holiday season, visit the CDC’s article here. 

References 

1. US Department of Health and Human Services (2018). Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. 2nd ed. Washington, DC. Retrieved from https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2021-03/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans-2020-2025.pdf  
2. U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2020). Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. 9th Edition. Retrieved from https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/  
3. U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2024). MyPlate. Retrieved from https://www.myplate.gov/  
4. Reisner, P. (2021, December 3). Tips to Fend Off Holiday Stress. Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/fend-off-holiday-stress-with-these-tips  

Updated 12/03/2025