17 Tips to Help You Stay Healthy this Holiday Season as a Midlife Woman
The last three months of the year are my favorite! We have Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas—all very social celebrations. People are close together, eating, sharing, and touching.
We also know it is a time for flu, allergies, and colds as weather is changing in many areas.
You will want to stay healthy this holiday season so you don’t miss any celebrations! But for many of us it takes a concerted effort to stay healthy during the holidays. So let’s talk about it.
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Let’s All Stay Healthy this Holiday Season
Prior to the pandemic, honestly I had never paid much attention to the things I could do to stay healthier. I just didn’t take the time to think much about it.
Washing my hands was something I never did extra well, and I certainly never used containers of hand sanitizers like some people did. Until COVID.
I DID NOT want to get that disease, so I started taking everything seriously and doing everything in my power to avoid getting sick.
As a midlife and senior woman during the past five years, I’ve had plenty on my plate to challenge my health and well-being!
I took care of my sick dad until he passed away, then I spent a year cleaning out his house and taking care of the estate. Meanwhile, I was diagnosed with a chronic disease and started having physical therapy and oodles of doctor appointments. And naturally, I started having sleep problems.
We renovated and remodeled the top floor of our home to make an inlaw suite for my mother-in-law to move in with us. We helped her clean out her house and move in with us. We had two granddaughters graduate from high school so there were lots of special activities with a lot of PEOPLE.
You probably get the idea, right? You have very possibly experienced the same kind of lifestyle as a midlife or senior woman. It’s a very busy time of our lives filled with many challenges that potentially can disrupt our health and well-being.
Now I’m following my own rules about staying healthy and have to admit I’m staying much healthier during the holiday season.
So let me share what I’ve been doing since 2020 to make sure I am well for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas—plus, all the special activities in between. Use these tips to help you stay healthy this holiday season, too!
1. Talk to Your Doctor About Getting the Flu Shot or Other Vaccines
Vaccines are one of the easiest ways to protect yourself during cold and flu season. Ask your doctor which ones are right for you, especially if you’re over 50 or have other health concerns.
2. Talk to Your Doctor About Taking Additional Supplements & Vitamins
Your body’s needs change as you age, and a doctor can guide you on whether things like Vitamin D, calcium, or immune-boosting supplements could help keep you healthier. I’ve added B12 shots, extra Magnesium, and IV therapy to my regimine.
3. Carry Hand Wipes or Hand Sanitizer with You at all Times
Germs are everywhere—on doorknobs, elevator buttons, and even pens at the bank. Keeping wipes or sanitizer in your bag makes it easy to protect yourself on the go. I actually ask for Wet Ones Anti-Bacterial Hands Wipes for Christmas and my birthday every year because these are my sanitizer of choice:)
4. Wipe Down Your Car Steering Wheel Often
We touch our steering wheels multiple times a day, often after running errands or shopping. A quick wipe-down keeps germs from traveling home with you. I make it a habit every time I walk out of a store.
5. Wash Your Hands Frequently
It’s a simple step but one of the most powerful. Take time to wash with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds—especially before meals or after being in public. Years ago, I heard someone with multiple children in a public bathroom tell them to sing the Alphabet song while washing, so guess what I still do to this day? 😆
6. Turn Your Head Away When Hugging
Hugs are wonderful and comforting, but turning your head to the side helps you avoid direct face-to-face exposure to germs.
7. Avoid Casual Kissing
Holiday gatherings often mean cheek kisses and quick pecks. As sweet as they are, skipping them during flu season can save you from picking up unwanted germs.
8. Wipe Down Your Shopping Cart Handle
Think of how many hands touch a shopping cart each day! A quick wipe before you shop adds a layer of protection. Think Wet Ones!
9. Consider Wearing a Mask in an Airport
Airports are crowded and filled with travelers from all over the place. A mask can give you peace of mind and help lower your chances of catching something.
10. If You’re in a Window Seat on a Plane, Wipe Down the Window Area
People lean, sneeze, and touch airplane windows all the time. Wiping your area keeps your little corner of the plane a lot safer. My husband always shakes his head at me but he knows now that I’m going to do it anyway.
11. Wipe Tables in Restaurants
This is another one my husband laughs about, but I still do it! Even if the table looks clean, you never know how well it was wiped down. A quick swipe with your own sanitizing wipe ensures you start fresh.
12. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps your body fight off illness, boosts your energy, and even helps keep your skin glowing through the busy holiday season.
13. Get Plenty of Sleep
Lack of sleep weakens your immune system and makes you more vulnerable to colds and flu. Aim for 7–9 hours to keep your body strong. BONUS: Wash your face before going to bed so you don’t take extra germs to bed with you!
Save This for the Holidays! Pin to Pinterest:)
14. Manage Stress & Anxiety
The holidays can be stressful, and stress takes a toll on your health. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or simply taking a walk to reset. Spent some time relaxing by the fire or watching a movie—wrapping presents can wait!
15. Practice Mindful Eating | Monitor Sweets
Holiday treats are everywhere, but too much sugar can drag down your immune system. Enjoy your favorites mindfully and balance them with nutritious foods.
16. Keep Your Hands Away from Your Face
Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth is one of the fastest ways germs enter your body. Be mindful and break the habit. I never knew how often I rested my chin on my dirty hand until the pandemic!
17. Consider Hosting Virtual Get-Togethers
If you or loved ones aren’t feeling well—or live far away—virtual gatherings are still a fun way to connect with family without risking anyone’s health. Give it a try! We’ve had lots of fun learning to use Zoom and partying with family from all over the United States!
By taking a few extra precautions and making small healthy choices, you can enjoy the holidays without letting germs or stress steal your joy.
Staying mindful about your health helps you show up fully for the people and celebrations you love most.
Final Thoughts
I don’t need to be a medical professional or expert to figure out what needs to be done to stay healthy during the holiday season. I’m an adult and can read BEST PRACTICES and listen to my doctors.
So these 17 tips come to you from experience and knowledge. While some of the tips are obvious, others are things we might neglect.
I hope this article raises your awareness of steps you can take to stay healthy during the holiday season so you can enjoy these next few months!
You might enjoy these Related Articles, too:
- Celebrate the Season with Style: 12 Holiday Lifestyle Tips
- 13 Valuable Ways to Start Getting Organized for the Holidays
Love to ALL! ~ Susan
