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DECEMBER 2025​

Gingerbread family holding hands in front of a warm fireplace

The holiday season is a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness. It's also a time of whirlwind activity and cheerful chaos! This makes it easy to forget about caring for ourselves. But just like this gingerbread family strolling hand-in-hand, you and your loved ones can embrace simple, meaningful habits that keep everyone healthy, happy, and thriving throughout the season. The Mindful Mondays Happy Holidays Series, Wellness From the Kitchen Holiday Dishes with Chef Sandra, the Holiday Family Health Tips and more, the Wellness Program is here to support you and your family during your Holiday Thrive Journey! 

Happy Holidays Series

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Monday, December 8, 11:00 am - 11:30 am: Holiday Mental Health Checklist

Learn how to set realistic holiday expectations and recognize the main sources of your holiday stress as you develop a plan for a stress-free holiday. 
 

Monday, December 15, 11:00 am - 11:30 am: Holiday Sleep and Your Heart

The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness, but it can also bring late nights and disrupted routines that impact both your sleep schedule and your heart health. With planning and awareness, you can maintain good sleep habits to enjoy this time of year to the fullest and keep your heart happy!



December Holiday Dishes with Chef Sandra

Chef Sandra Lewis

Tuesday, December 2, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Meatloaf Magic

This cozy classic never quits! Dive into the ultimate comfort food as you turn humble ingredients into a show-stopping, sliceable masterpiece that's juicy, flavorful, and downright irresistible.

Tuesday, December 9, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Sauteed Carrots with Whipped Feta and Spiced Nuts

Elevate your veggie game to a new level as a simple carrot becomes a full-on flavor experience! Saute carrots until golden and tender, whip feta cheese into a dreamy, creamy cloud, and toast nuts that bring crunch, aroma, and just the right amount of heat. You'll need to make a lot because this is so good that your dinner guests will want more!

Tuesday, December 16, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Amaretto Dream Cheesecake

While this dish may be intimidating, Chef Sandra will be with you every step of the way as she guides you to a masterpiece! You'll master the art of no-crack cheesecake, build a crust that is firm yet melts in your mouth, and swirl just enough amaretto to make everyone's taste buds dance. Consider this your ticket to dessert glory!

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Wednesday, December 3, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Holiday Happiness

Holiday joy may not be the same for everyone, but there are universal happiness boosters that can brighten the season. Discover simple tips to spark your holiday happiness!

Wednesday, December 10, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Slow Your Scroll: The Benefits of a Social Media Break During the Holidays

Experts agree that social media and the holidays don't always go together like hot chocolate and marshmallows. Learn the benefits of even a short social media holiday break. 

Wednesday, December 17, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Dealing with Emotional Eating During the Holidays

Along with all the events centered around food during the holidays, emotions may be on overdrive. Learn why emotional eating during the holidays is common and ways to handle "head hunger" in this session. 

Healthy Holidays chalkboard with festive decorations

Thursday, December 4, 11:00 am - 11:30 am: Chair Pilates

Holiday wellness is about supporting your body through a season that demands more from it than usual. Pilates enhances digestion, relaxes muscle tension due to stress, and provides a well-being boost just when it's needed. This class is a gift to your body!
  

Thursday, December 11, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Healthy Holidays Tips

The holidays don't have to derail your health. Moderation, movement, mindfulness, and smart planning keep you on track throughout the holidays!
  

Thursday, December 18, 11:00 am - 11:30 am: Chair Yoga

The holidays can feel like a priority juggling act, making it easy to put yourself last on your list. But neglecting self-care now can lead to burnout, leaving you too exhausted to enjoy the season. This class provides you with a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself - just the mini-retreat you need!  


Holiday Meditations

Take Time to Unwind... Its Healthy to Relax, Renew, and Rejuvenate

Friday, December 5, 11:00 am - 11:15 am: The Power of Acceptance

Developing your capacity to accept the reality of the present moment may help to reduce stress and increase inner peace - perfect timing for the holidays!
  

Friday, December 12, 11:00 am - 11:15 am: Dropping the Suitcase of Worries and Regrets

Drop your heavy suitcase of worries and regrets to allow yourself to rest and feel a peace that will carry you through the holidays and beyond.
 

Friday, December 19, 11:00 am - 11:15 am: Connection Reflection

Technology promises connection with others yet can actually distance you from genuine human interaction - collecting digital friends like trading cards misses the comfort of being fully present with another human being. Reflecting on your connections and how to nurture them beyond the screen can restore depth, warmth, and authenticity that no algorithm can replicate. 


Tips For a Healthier you in a blue sky with white clouds  

Friday, December 5, 11:30 am - 11:45 am: Five Fundamentals of Financial Wellbeing

Finances can be more stressful during the holidays. Learn how to reduce this financial stress by practicing the five fundamentals of financial wellbeing.

Friday, December 12, 11:30 am - 11:45 am: Cold Weather and Wintertime Safety

Brush up on ways to stay safe during the colder months as common weather challenges and wintertime health practices are discussed. 
 

Friday, December 19, 11:30 am - 11:45 am: Healthier Ways for the Holidays

The holidays can be delightful but also can hinder your nutrition and fitness goals. Learn how to make healthier choices while enjoying holiday fun!