It’s the most wonderful time of the year — but it can also be the busiest! Taking care of ourselves during all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be challenging. Read on to learn more about four common wellness challenges you and your employees may face during the holidays and how your organization can help!
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Eating mindfully

No matter which holidays your employees celebrate, it’s pretty likely that their celebrations will include lots of rich food. With everyone making their once-a-year family recipes, it can be difficult not to overindulge. While there’s no reason for anyone to deprive themselves completely, being mindful of food choices and portion sizes can help them stay consistent on their health goals through the holiday season.

How you can help: Hold a healthy holiday recipe potluck! At your office holiday party, challenge your employees to bring healthier alternatives to their favorite holiday dishes. Here are a few great ideas to start with, from one of our Firefly health guides!
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Managing stress 

Between decorating the house, mailing cards, baking holiday goodies, shopping for the perfect gifts, and juggling a million parties, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. During the last few months of the year, it can seem like there are simply not enough hours in the day to get it all done — and that’s before you add in family time and end-of-the-year work at the office.

How you can help: Help your team maintain work-life balance over the holidays by being flexible with scheduling if possible, and provide opportunities for them to relieve stress with wellness events like yoga and meditation.
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Coping with loss or tense family situations

While many people love spending extra time with their loved ones during the holidays, it can be a particularly triggering time of year for anyone coping with loss or a contentious relationship with their family. Seasonal depression and feelings of loneliness can make it really difficult to enjoy the spirit of the season.

How you can help: Ensure your employees know about your Employee Assistance Program, if you offer one, and how to find mental health professionals through your company-sponsored insurance plan. Offering out-of-office activities like a trivia night, cooking class, or an afternoon volunteering can establish traditions that help all of your employees feel inspired and included.
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Staying active

Between the packed schedules and dropping temperatures, there are a lot of reasons that exercise routines often fall by the wayside during the holidays. But exercise during this season is just as — if not more — important now as it is the rest of the year. Not only can it combat seasonal weight gain and support overall health, but it can also help manage the stress that accompanies the holidays.

How you can help: Consider implementing a fitness challenge or training plan over the holiday season that inspires employees to stay active. A step competition is a great way to engage people with varying fitness levels without making anyone feel like they can’t participate.
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Firefly is here to help

If you have questions about how to help your team stay healthy and safe during the holiday season, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Firefly Health care team. You can chat with us or schedule a visit in the app today. Not a member yet? Get started by signing up or giving us a call at (855) 869-9284.