The holiday season is here—a time for laughter, joy, and moments with those we love. With so many gatherings and events, it’s important to keep our health a priority. As you get ready for the festivities, run through your wellness checklist twice so you can enjoy a happy, healthy holiday.
This post is sponsored by I Vaccinate. All opinions are my own.
Healthy Holiday Checklist:
Hand hygiene
Teach the whole family to wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—especially before meals and after being in public. Make it a habit to wash hands when you come in from errands or school. When you’re out, carry hand sanitizer and use it frequently (we use it as soon as we get back in the car).
Vaccine check-up
Book a visit with your healthcare provider or local clinic to make sure everyone is up to date on routine vaccines and boosters. Don’t forget the flu shot—especially during colder months. December 4–8 is National Influenza Vaccination Week, a reminder that people six months and older can still get a flu vaccine this season.
Keeping vaccinations current is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent illness. Recent MDHHS data show only 66.1% of children aged 19 to 36 months have completed the recommended primary vaccine series—the lowest rate in Michigan since 2020. That leaves many kids at risk and weakens community protection (public health experts generally say a 70% vaccination rate is a minimum).
Protecting my children and loved ones is a top priority. Staying up to date on routine vaccinations is one of the best ways to protect family and community. Our family follows the CDC-recommended immunization schedule, which protects children and teens from 16 vaccine-preventable diseases. This schedule has been carefully tested and reviewed by medical experts and shows vaccines are safe and effective at preventing disease and outbreaks. For more on vaccine safety and importance, visit iVaccinate.org.
Healthy eating habits
Enjoy holiday treats, but balance them with nutritious meals. Include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Keep healthy snacks on hand—like cut fruit, raw veggies and dip, nuts, or jerky—so you can fill up on nutrient-dense options alongside special treats.
Stay active, stay merry
Keep everyone moving. Plan active outings or add physical activities to holiday traditions—post-dinner walks, a game of charades, sledding, hiking, or a dance-off to holiday music. Fresh air and movement boost both mood and energy.
Mindful moderation
Savor holiday foods and practice portion control. It’s not about strict limits but enjoying treats in moderation and appreciating the flavors.
Adequate rest and relaxation
Make sleep and downtime a priority. Keep a bedtime routine so everyone gets the rest they need. Good sleep helps the body and mind recover and feel their best.
Holiday stress-busters
Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing or short meditation, and do things that bring calm and joy. Talk openly as a family about worries and share tasks when possible so things feel lighter.
Prioritize mental health
Support one another and keep communication open. If holiday stress becomes overwhelming, consider professional help or counseling.
Spread cheer, not germs
Practice good respiratory etiquette—cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow—and if you’re sick, please stay home. We all love gifts, but nobody wants the gift of germs.
The holidays are a time for celebration and gratitude, and taking care of our health helps everyone enjoy the season. Wishing you a safe, healthy, and joy-filled holiday season!
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