The holidays offer many opportunities to connect and celebrate, yet packed schedules, high expectations and the pressure to do it all can make the season feel overwhelming. Sofia Newton, program manager for Alameda Health System’s (AHS) Healthy Me Wellness Program, reminds us that prioritizing your health and well-being ensures you are fully present for all the meaningful moments.
“It’s easy to get swept up in doing instead of simply being,” said Newton. “Even a few small self-care habits can slow the pace and bring more serenity, presence and joy for the holidays.”
Holiday wellness starts with intention. Newton encourages planning not just errands and events but also rest and joy. “Schedule downtime the same way you schedule the to-do list,” she shared. “When everything has a place on the calendar, you give yourself permission to slow down and enjoy it.”
Prioritizing downtime matters and rest is essential for emotional balance and resilience. Nearly one in three adults gets less than the recommended seven hours of sleep, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which can affect mood, focus and overall health.
Staying well also includes taking preventive steps, such as getting vaccinated, to protect yourself and those around you during the busy season. Getting both your flu and COVID-19 vaccines helps reduce the risk of illness, so you can fully enjoy time with family and friends.
Caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your body. The holidays can stir many emotions, and about 64 percent of people report increased stress, anxiety or depression this time of year.
“Acknowledging what you are feeling is a powerful first step toward self-care,” said Newton. AHS employees can access support through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which offers tools, resources and up to five free counseling sessions that can be done by video, phone, text or chat.
To stay healthy, grounded and less stressed during the holidays and beyond, Newton recommends incorporating a few simple daily habits:
- Take a few minutes to breathe, stretch or go for a walk
- Limit screen time, especially before bed
- Say “no” to overbooking and protect your time
To support these healthy habits, AHS makes it easier to care for your well-being through the Healthy Me Wellness Program, which offers resources and webinars on managing holiday pressures, reducing stress, and building a personal wellness toolkit.
“As the holidays approach, remember to care for yourself as much as you care for others,” said Newton. “Creating space for self-care makes the season healthier, less stressful and truly more joyful.”
Building on that advice, take time to care for your health and well-being this holiday season and into the new year by exploring the Healthy Me Wellness Program and the EAP.
In addition, AHS patients can visit our internet for flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinic times, and AHS employees can get vaccinated through their provider or local pharmacy.