Key Takeaways

Experts say unrealistic expectations make holiday wellness harder than the schedule itself

Small steps like short walks and staying hydrated can help keep routines consistent

Progress matters more than perfection, experts say

SUNDAY, Dec. 7, 2025 (HealthDay News) — The holidays can bring travel, busy schedules and family events, and for many people, that means healthy habits slip. But experts say staying well during this time doesn’t require perfection.

It’s not just the schedule that gets in the way, it’s the expectations we put on ourselves, Samantha Harden , an associate professor in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods and Exercise at Virginia Tech, said in a news release.

"We expect to have time off and be our ‘best selves’ when we step back from work and hav

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