Healthy Holidays, Wesson Style

By Guest Columnist Dr. Stephanie Duguid

The holiday season brings excitement, traditions, and moments of joy, but it can also bring stress, busy schedules, financial pressure, and expectations that feel overwhelming.  During December, many families in Wesson are balancing celebrations with concerns about health, wellness and emotional well-being.

The good news is that with intention and simple habits, you can enjoy the holidays in a safe, healthy and meaningful way. Here are practical tips to help you stay well, mind, body, and spirit, while still embracing the magic of the season.

• Acknowledge your feelings.  December can bring a mix of emotions, joy, nostalgia, grief, stress or loneliness. Allow yourself to feel what you feel. Reflect, breathe and don’t pressure yourself to create the “perfect” holiday.

• Manage expectations and set boundaries.  Reduce stress by letting go of perfection. Focus on presence, not pressure. It’s okay to decline events, set limits on your time or create quieter moments at home. Healthy boundaries protect your peace.

• Enjoy food mindfully.  Holiday meals are part of the joy.  Instead of restricting yourself, enjoy your favorite dishes with balance in mind.  Stay hydrated, eat regular meals and keep portions moderate.

• Add movement to your day.  A short walk after dinner, playing outside with the kids, stretching in the evening or joining a local activity can help reduce stress and boost energy, even in the chilly weather.

• Protect your sleep.  Aim for 7–9 hours of rest. Sleep keeps your immune system strong and your mood steady during a busy season.

• Boost your immune system.  December is also peak illness season. Support your health with:

  • Good handwashing

  • Clean high-touch surfaces 

  • Staying home when sick

  • Eating nutrient-rich foods

  • Getting fresh air when possible

  • Small steps make a big difference

• Keep gatherings comfortable.  Whether celebrating at home or traveling, focus on safe, manageable gatherings. Bring sanitizer, pack healthy snacks and adjust plans if someone is ill.

• Reduce financial stress.  Overspending adds pressure. Create a budget, consider gift exchanges or make homemade gifts. Presence matters more than presents.

• Connect with supportive people.  Make time for relationships that bring joy and comfort. If you’re struggling, reach out. Connection strengthens mental health.

• Give back to the community.  Volunteering, donating or helping a neighbor brings a sense of purpose, one of the healthiest feelings of the season.

• Practice gratitude.  Write down a few things you’re grateful for each day. Gratitude lowers stress and creates a sense of calm during busy weeks.

Create a season that feels meaningful to you.  Ask yourself: What matters most about this holiday? What traditions bring joy?

What can you simplify? The best holidays are centered on connection, rest, and purpose not perfection.

A final thought:  Wesson shines during December with its community spirit and shared traditions. By caring for your health, emotionally, physically and socially, you can enter the new year feeling renewed and grounded.

Wishing you and your family a safe, joyful, and healthy holiday season.

EDITOR'S NOTE:  Dr. Stephanie Duguid is owner of Do Good ProHealth (CPR Classes) and Do Good Leadership (motivational speaking, and leadership and success coaching).  She is also a Mississippi Health Ambassador.