The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, full of family gatherings, comfort food, and cozy traditions. But they’re also one of the busiest times of the year, when routines go out the window, sleep gets sacrificed, and cold weather brings the sniffles.
At Hancock Health, we believe staying healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small, thoughtful choices can make a big difference in how you feel, and help you enjoy the season to the fullest. Here are some simple ways to keep yourself (and your loved ones) healthy and happy this holiday season.
Prioritize Rest, Even in the Festivities
Between late-night wrapping sessions, holiday parties, and travel, sleep often takes a back seat. But rest is a powerful way to strengthen your immune system.
Try these simple habits to make rest a priority:
- Stick to a consistent bedtime, even with a busy schedule.
- Sneak in short naps after travel or big events.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.
- Create a calm bedtime routine, like dimming the lights and turning off screens.
Don’t forget: adults typically need seven to nine hours of sleep each night to function at their best. You’ll enjoy the season more when you’re well-rested and refreshed. And if you’re struggling with getting sufficient rest, the Sleep Center at Hancock Regional Hospital can diagnose and treat the most common and complex causes for disrupted sleep.
Keep Germs at Bay
Cold and flu viruses love the holidays almost as much as we do. With crowded stores, family gatherings, and travel, it’s easy for germs to spread.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help protect yourself and others:
- Wash your hands often, especially before meals or after being in public.
- Keep hand sanitizer nearby when shopping or traveling.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue.
- Stay home, and keep others home, if you’re feeling unwell.
If you do catch something, Hancock Health has primary care offices and convenient immediate care facilities ready to help you get back to feeling your best.
Eat Smart, Especially Around All Those Cookies
The holidays are filled with delicious foods, and you should definitely enjoy them! The key is balance, not restriction.
Here are a few ways to eat well and still enjoy your favorites:
- Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables when possible.
- Drink plenty of water between meals.
- Choose snacks with a mix of protein and fiber to stay energized.
- Bring a healthy dish to gatherings so you have nourishing options available.
Move Your Body & Make It Fun
Movement doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym. It can be simple, fun, and part of your holiday routine.
Try incorporating activity in creative ways:
- Take a walk after dinner to enjoy the holiday lights.
- Turn up the music and dance while decorating or cooking.
- Have a family snowball fight or go sledding (if we’re lucky enough for a decent snowfall).
- Do a short online workout or stretch while watching a favorite holiday movie.
Staying active boosts your immune system, relieves stress, and helps balance all those extra holiday treats.
Did you know that Hancock Health has three wellness centers located throughout the county, in 麥科茲維爾, 格林菲爾德， 和 新巴勒斯坦? Not only can you get fit in your community, but you can also take advantage of nutrition programs, clinical fitness programs, on-site child care, and more.
Manage Stress with Intention
As joyful as the season is, it can also bring a fair amount of stress, from financial pressures to full
calendars. Taking care of your mental and emotional health matters just as much as your physical well-being.
A few ways to reduce stress during the holidays:
- Set aside quiet time each day to breathe and reset.
- Give yourself permission to say “no” when your schedule feels full.
- Focus on the people and traditions that make you happiest.
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to someone you trust for support.
A Healthy Holiday for All
This holiday season, give yourself the gift of balance, rest, and connection. At Hancock Health, we’re here to help you make your best health possible, during the holidays and all year long.
Our doctors are located throughout Hancock County, in Greenfield, McCordsville, New Palestine, and Knightstown. Many of our offices offer same-day appointments, extended hours, and care for kids, so you can get the care you need, when and where it works for you.
We also have two immediate care facilities you can visit if you’re unable to see your primary care provider or need care outside of standard appointment hours.
- Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Located in Greenfield in the Brandywine Plaza on North State Street
- Open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Closed on Christmas Day and at 3 p.m. on other holidays
- Located at Hancock Gateway Park, where I-70 meets Mount Comfort Road
- Open Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Offers both primary care and immediate care. Walk-ins are welcome.
- Located at 224 W. Main St.