Wellness

Our guide to a happy, healthy holiday season

thanksgiving dinner with a turkey and sides at a table

We’re diving into ways to prioritize movement, wellness, and nutrition for a balanced and healthy holiday season. | Photo via Pexels

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…and the busiest.

Holiday to-dos are on the horizon — from travel and shopping to decorating and baking. If these seasonal chores are known to unleash your inner Scrooge, we’ve got you.

Here are a few ways to prioritize your mental + physical wellness for a healthier, happier holiday season.

🏃 Find fun (and festive) ways to move

Did you know Americans are five times more likely to report their stress level increases rather than decreases during the holidays?

We know exercise can help combat seasonal stress, so here are some ways to make time for mindful movement, get your blood flowing, and keep spirits high:

Stroll a holiday market

Junior League of Columbia Holiday Market | November 30-December 3 | Times vary | SC State Fairgrounds | $10 general admission
Holiday Weekend Market | December 15-17 | Times vary | Noma Warehouse, 2222 Sumter St.

Register the family for a 5K

Turkey Day 5K | November 23 | 9 a.m. | Colonial Life Arena | $18-$38
Shandon Turkey Trot & Burn 5K | November 24 | 10 a.m. | 670 Woodrow St. | $35
Santa Run 5K | December 9 | 9 a.m. | Strictly Running, 2515 Devine St. | $15-$40

Enjoy seasonal activities

Historic Columbia Candlelight Walking Tour | December 9 | 6-9 p.m. | Robert Mills House and Hampton-Preston Mansion | $8-$20

🦠 Prevent seasonal sickness

Travel, cold weather, and crowded gatherings may be inevitable this holiday season, but getting sick with a cold, the flu, or COVID-19 doesn’t have to be.

Here are some doctor-backed ways to avoid getting sick this season:

Get the annual flu shot.
Support your immunity by eating vitamin-packed foods.
Follow smart travel tips (like staying hydrated on a flight).
Practice everyday hand hygiene.

Keep reading for tips on how to health-ify your holiday meals.

Holiday meals, the healthy way

Asked

What’s your favorite “healthfied” holiday recipe?

We're hungry for recommendations

Events

Sports

UofSC Gamecocks vs. Clemson Tigers Women’s Basketball | Thursday, November 16 | 7 p.m. | Colonial Life Arena, 801 Lincoln St. | $25+ | Enjoy an evening of women’s basketball as Carolina takes on the Clemson Tigers.
UofSC Gamecocks vs. Clemson Tigers Football | Saturday, November 25 | Time TBA | Williams-Brice Stadium | $135+ | The Gamecocks play at home in this rivalry game vs. Clemson Tigers Football.

Active

Gravel Road 10K | Saturday, November 18 | 8 a.m. | Harbison State Forest, 5600 Broad River Rd. | $25 | Registration ends tomorrow for this 10K race through the rolling hills at Harbison State Forest.
Sleigh Bell Trot | Monday, November 20 | 7-9 p.m. | Saluda Shoals Park, 6071 St. Andrews Rd. | $30-$40 | Experience the holiday lights on the river during this nighttime four-mile themed run.
Yoga with Baby Goats | Saturday, December 2 | 3-4 p.m. | Fit Columbia, 2121 College St. | $27 | Snuggle and play with baby goats during this fun + unique hour-long yoga class.

Family

Richland One Play Groups | Saturday, December 2 | 12-1 p.m. | C.R. Neal Dream Center, 2441 Atlas Rd. | Free | Richland One families with kids ages 5 and under are invited to come out for an afternoon of games, songs, reading books, and more.
Accessibility Morning at the SC State Museum | Saturday, Dec. 9 | 9 a.m.-11 a.m. | South Carolina State Museum, 301 Gervais St. | Free, pre-registration encouraged | Families of children with a disability or who are neurodiverse are welcome to enjoy a quiet, sensory-friendly, and disability-adapted experience at the museum.

Active

4 ways to keep active in colder weather

Bundle up and try an outdoor workout this winter. | Photo by @outspokincola

Sweater weather is here, Cola. (And winter is on its way.) Here are a few tips to help keep your activity levels high as the temperatures drop lower:

Find movement opportunities in your everyday life (think: taking the stairs vs. the elevator).
Bundle up for a community bike ride, or mountain bike at Harbison State Forest.
Try a new winter workout.
Take care of seasonal chores like raking leaves + preparing your winter garden.

5 more fall fitness tips

News Notes

Eat

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Looking to celebrate Turkey Day the healthier way? Try this twist on the classic Southern side, sweet potato casserole. This recipe has all of the flavor of the traditional dish, but with a lower sugar and fat content.

Health

Did you know November is National Diabetes Month? Ahead of the holiday feasts this season, educate yourself on what people with diabetes can eat to stay healthy + manage their blood sugar. Learn more about the popular “plate method” and other healthy eating tips for diabetics.

Stat

127,000+. That’s the estimated number of lung cancer deaths we will see in the US this year, according to the American Cancer Society. Early detection is one of the best ways to catch and treat the disease. In light of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, see if you’re eligible for a lung cancer screening.

Community

Picture this: Fresh produce, pasture-raised eggs, sourdough + other local goods delivered straight to your doorstep each week. That’s what Community Supported Grocery is bringing to select Columbia neighborhoods through its farm-to-door delivery subscription service, providing a new way for our community to get access to nutritious, local, and affordable food.

Cause

‘Tis the season for giving. Mark your calendars for Giving Tuesday, coming up on November 28. This global event is your chance to give back through local volunteer opportunities, tokens of appreciation, and donations. Learn more about how you can support the Cola community.

Coming Soon

In case you missed it, a new “forest to table” restaurant is coming to 823 Gervais St. in The Vista. Set to open in early 2024, The Hollow will bring a menu with dishes focused on wild game, like elk, rabbit, and venison + fresh wild vegetables. (Post and Courier)

See more wellness news

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