The holiday season brings excitement, family gatherings, and travel, but it also comes with its share of stress. Increased travel during November, particularly around Thanksgiving, can create challenges such as traffic delays, accidents, or vehicle breakdowns. Being prepared with an emergency car kit—including a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, water, non-perishable food, and seasonal items like blankets and gloves—can provide peace of mind and even allow you to help others in need. Frequent travelers can further reduce stress by staying hydrated, packing healthy snacks, remaining active during layovers, adjusting to local time zones, and planning ahead for weather and traffic conditions.
Mindful eating during the holidays can also help maintain wellness. Rather than feeling obligated to try every dish, focus on savoring meals, listening to hunger cues, and choosing healthier options when possible. Maintaining good nutrition leading up to gatherings, exercising beforehand, and bringing a healthy dish to share are practical ways to balance enjoyment with wellness. These strategies allow individuals to indulge responsibly while staying energized and feeling in control, creating a positive holiday experience.
Managing stress and prioritizing quality sleep are equally important for overall health. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, physical activity, and time management can reduce tension and increase emotional well-being. Connecting meaningfully with loved ones also fosters calm and joy. For sleep, maintain a consistent schedule, establish a calming bedtime routine, optimize your sleep environment, and limit exposure to screens before bed. Labcorp’s health coaching programs can support employees in setting wellness goals and adopting sustainable habits throughout the holidays, offering guidance, motivation, and emotional support to ensure healthier, less stressful celebrations.