Finding Joy in the Holidays — While Holding Onto Your Healthy Habits

The holiday season can be a source of comfort and discomfort — often at the very same time. We may look forward to familiar foods, music, traditions, and time with people we care about, while also feeling the weight of expectations, financial strain, extra activities, or moments of loneliness. 

If this mix sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The good news: with a little planning and self-compassion, you can enjoy the season and still honor the healthy habits that help you feel your best. 

Start With You 

Before the calendar fills up, take a moment to check in with yourself. Think about what brings you comfort — people, routines, meaningful traditions, or favorite foods — and where discomfort tends to show up. Naming both helps you make choices that support your well-being throughout the season. 

Ask yourself: 

• What can I do to decrease discomfort? 

• What brings me joy? 

• How can I maintain the habits that help me feel steady and grounded? 

These questions give you a plan that reflects your needs, not someone else’s expectations. 

 

Practice “Extreme” Self-Care 

The holidays often come with long to-do lists, but caring for yourself belongs at the top. A few ways to make that happen: 

• Choose what’s meaningful to you. Give your time and energy to the activities that matter most, and feel free to skip the rest. 

• Plan to stay active. Any amount of movement helps — dancing in the kitchen, a short walk, stretching before bed. 

• Schedule downtime. Rest is not optional; it’s part of staying well. 

• Bring what you want to eat or drink. This removes pressure and ensures you have options that make you feel satisfied and comfortable. 

Trust Your Body’s Intuition 

Your body offers guidance all day long — especially during busy seasons. Checking in with these cues can help you feel more balanced around food and activity: 

• Hunger 

• Fullness 

• Fatigue 

• Energy levels 

• Desire for movement 

Responding to these signals gently and consistently can help you enjoy the holidays without feeling like you’re “on” or “off” track. 

Enjoy Treats Beyond the Table 

Food is one part of the celebration, but not the only one. Consider savoring: 

• Beautiful sights 

• Festive music 

• Seasonal scents 

• Meaningful experiences 

• Cozy, comfortable clothing that helps you feel confident and relaxed 

The season offers many ways to enjoy yourself that have nothing to do with a plate. 

 

Eat and Drink What You Truly Love 

Instead of filling your plate with items you feel obligated to choose, pick the foods and drinks that genuinely make you happy. Skip anything “so-so.” 

You can also keep your usual eating patterns in place — such as regular meals and snacks — which helps maintain steadier hunger and energy throughout the day. 

 

Love What You Choose (and Skip the Guilt) 

Guilt has a way of clouding the experience of eating, especially during the holidays. A few reminders can help keep things in perspective: 

• Enjoy your food slowly, one bite at a time — noticing the flavors, textures, and aromas. 

• Avoid the “what-the-heck effect,” where one unplanned choice leads to giving up on your intentions altogether. Every moment is a chance to reset with compassion. 

Remember: Any Movement Is an Improvement 

There’s no “perfect” way to stay active during the holidays. Whether it’s a walk with family, dancing at a party, or a few minutes of stretching between errands — it all counts. Even small moments of movement can boost your mood and energy. 

 

Final Thought 

The holidays don’t have to be about all-or-nothing thinking. With intention, self-kindness, and a focus on what truly matters to you, it’s possible to enjoy the season and stay connected to the habits that support your well-being all year long. 

If you’d like additional guidance, recipes, or tips, our care teams at Brevard Health Alliance are here to help you feel your best — during the holidays and beyond.