Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
The holiday season, from Halloween to Christmas, is a time filled with joy, tradition and togetherness. It can also challenge our routines, especially when it comes to health and wellness. Between sugary treats, rich meals, colder weather and packed schedules, it is easy to feel overwhelmed.
With a few thoughtful strategies, families can enjoy the holidays while still prioritizing their physical and mental well-being.
Practice mindful eating
Seasonal favorites do not have to derail healthy habits. Practicing mindful eating can help you enjoy treats without overindulging. Before reaching for a dessert, pause and take a deep breath. Notice the colors, textures and smells of your food. Chew slowly, savor the flavors and set your fork down between bites to stay present.
Eating nutrient-rich foods first, like green beans or roasted squash, can help balance richer dishes. Using a hunger scale from one (“I’m starving”) to 10 (“I’m so stuffed I can barely move”), aim to stop eating around an eight, when you feel satisfied but not overly full.
For parents navigating Halloween candy, moderation is key. Keep treats in a central, supervised location and let kids choose one or two favorites. Encourage them to enjoy their candy without distractions like screens, helping them focus on the pleasure the candy brings.
Halloween safety tips
Halloween is a magical time, but safety should come first. Guardians should supervise trick-or-treaters and remind them to look both ways before crossing the street. Costumes should be free of tripping hazards like long capes, and masks should allow for clear vision and easy breathing.
After trick-or-treating, inspect candy to ensure all wrappers are intact and untampered with.
Staying active in cold weather
Cold weather and busy schedules can make exercise feel difficult, but movement does not have to be complicated. Everyday activities like climbing stairs or lifting a toddler can be effective workouts. Try bicep curls with canned goods or gallon jugs. Home workouts are a great option, and free videos online make it easy to stay active. If accessible, joining a local gym can also provide motivation and community.
Managing stress and mental health
The holiday season can be very stressful, with families often having many activities to juggle, the pressure of coordinating presents and concerns about traveling in inclement weather. It can also bring up feelings of grief for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.
Establishing a mental wellness routine during the holiday season can be beneficial. This may include any activity that promotes calm, reflection or a sense of peace. Some ways to achieve this might include praying, doing puzzles, making art, cooking, deep breathing or walking in the snow.
For those affected by seasonal depression, light therapy can be helpful. Look for a light with at least 10,000 lux units of white, fluorescent light and no UV rays. Use it for about 30 minutes in the morning, positioned 12 to 18 inches from your face. These small practices can support emotional well-being throughout the season.
Preventing illness
Illnesses tend to spread more easily during the holidays. Staying up to date on vaccinations, including flu, COVID, and RSV, as appropriate, is an important step in protecting yourself and others. Hand hygiene is also essential. Wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or after being in public spaces. If you are feeling sick, stay home and rest. This helps prevent the spread of illness and supports faster recovery.
Enjoy the season safely
Fall and winter bring many opportunities for celebration, connection and joy. With a few intentional choices, families can enjoy the magic of the holidays while staying healthy, safe and well.
