The holiday season is a time of connection, celebration, and joy — but it can also be a time when routines shift, and health takes a back seat. With busier schedules, rich meals, and colder weather, it’s easy to lose track of healthy habits. At DFD Russell Medical Centers, we encourage families to take a proactive approach to holiday wellness, especially when it comes to managing chronic conditions, staying active, and making smart choices.
A little planning now can help your whole family feel better through the holidays and head into the new year strong.
1. Prioritize Routine Care Before Year-End
The holidays are a great reminder to schedule any overdue check-ups, especially for children and older adults. Annual exams, medication reviews, and chronic condition management should stay on your radar — even during this busy season.
- Schedule family check-ups before the calendar fills up
- Refill prescriptions ahead of time to avoid holiday closures
- Use remaining insurance benefits or FSA funds before they expire
If you or a loved one is managing a chronic condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma, a pre-holiday visit with your provider can help keep things on track.
2. Stay Active, Even in Small Ways
Cold weather and busy days can make it harder to fit in movement, but staying active supports both physical and mental health.
- Take family walks after meals, even if it’s a short loop around the driveway or down the road
- Turn household tasks like decorating or shoveling into opportunities to move
- Try indoor activities like stretching, dancing, or online workouts when outdoor time isn’t possible
Keeping active helps manage blood sugar, mood, and energy, making it easier to enjoy the season.
3. Make Balanced Food Choices
From potlucks to holiday feasts, food is at the center of many celebrations. You don’t have to skip your favorite treats, but balance is key.
- Fill half your plate with fruits or vegetables whenever possible
- Watch portion sizes, especially for desserts and rich sides
- Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day
- Don’t skip meals to “save up” for a big dinner
If you or a family member has dietary needs or health restrictions, consider bringing a dish that accommodates your needs to gatherings or communicating with the host in advance.
4. Watch for Holiday Stress
The holidays can be emotionally overwhelming for some — whether due to financial pressure, grief, or simply a packed calendar. Look for signs of stress in yourself or loved ones and take breaks when needed.
- Practice deep breathing or short moments of quiet
- Stick to sleep routines as best you can
- Encourage open conversation if someone seems down or withdrawn
Your mental health matters just as much as physical health, especially during this time of year.
5. Keep Health at the Center of Holiday Plans
Create a holiday plan that puts your family’s well-being first. That might mean scheduling quieter evenings between events, planning nutritious meals, or keeping a shared calendar to avoid overload.
A healthy holiday doesn’t mean a perfect one — it means finding a balance that lets your family enjoy the season while still feeling good.
DFD Is Here for You, During the Holidays and Beyond
Whether you need to book an end-of-year appointment, manage a chronic condition, or simply want help maintaining healthy habits, DFD Russell Medical Centers is here for you.
Let’s work together to make this holiday season happy, healthy, and stress-free for the whole family. Visit www.dfdrussell.org or call your local DFD location to schedule your visit today.