While many people look forward to the plenty of parties, treats and celebrations associated with “the most wonderful time of the year,” for others the holiday season is filled with grief, loneliness, sickness or concern about the bevy of illnesses floating around during the cold-weather months. Whether indulging at gatherings or spending time solo and reflecting as the year ends, The Washington Informer has everything folks need to be healthy and happy as possible this holiday season.
This special edition emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health this holiday season and beyond.
From shopping to parties, feasts or having to be alone, this time of the year can be filled with fun activities, but also moments that can contribute to or exacerbate physical and mental health challenges.
Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently reports low rates for respiratory illnesses — such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19 — nationwide, health experts forecast numbers will soon rise.
“The holidays are coming, and large gatherings, travel, and more time indoors can mean more viruses spreading,” according to the CDC.
Regular hand-washing, appropriately covering the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, and staying away from others when sick are some everyday ways the CDC recommends combating respiratory illnesses.
The CDC also encourages immunizations and testing as ways to remain healthy throughout the holidays.
I can attest to the “comfort and joy” testing can bring to a family gathering. This Thanksgiving, my family gathered at my 94-year-old grandfather’s home, and his nurse requested all guests take a COVID-19 test to ensure we could all safely be together. We were able to fellowship with confidence that we all wouldn’t get my grandfather (or one another) sick, and could enjoy the feast without worrying about an unhealthy side of germs to dampen the holiday cheer.
Further, Dr. Francis J. Gialanella, of Cooperman Barnabas Medicine, explains in RWJ Barnabas Health that exposure to large crowds, cold weather, increased stress, disrupted routines, overeating and alcohol, not enough self care, and holiday blues as some of the reasons people tend to get sick during this season.
However, there are ways for people of all ages to maintain mental and physical health.
This edition, learn about the importance of nutritional health at all ages and put it into practice.
While the season is filled with decadent food and desserts, try recipes that are deliciously healthy, such as a Cajun creamy collard and spinach dip, hearty with veggies and cheesy goodness and vegan sweet potato pie that will delight your taste buds.
As children enjoy Christmas break, ensuring they remain healthy by eating well, boosting their immune systems, and protecting them from disease is critical so they are well-equipped to tackle the new year. This edition features advice from a pediatrician and a Q&A with Michelle Riley-Brown, president and CEO of Children’s National Hospital to help young people and families.
The hustle and bustle or perhaps solitude that comes with this season can also be stressful. This special edition highlights the importance of mental health during this time and finding holistic ways to combat the physical and mental challenges that can manifest from stress, not only during the holidays, but year round.
As 2025 approaches, this edition offers tools that will allow for a healthy and strong start to a new year.
Keep this special edition as a reminder and resource to prioritize health and instead of spreading germs, spread the good news: helpful information to promote overall wellness.
Happy, healthy holidays! Wishing you peace, blessings and great health this holiday season, in 2025 and beyond!
