fitALANYC Newsletter - December 2025

Coping with the Holiday Blues

In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” — Albert Camus.

While the holiday season is often portrayed as joyful and festive, it can also bring feelings of loneliness, stress, or sadness—sometimes known as the “holiday blues.” The holiday season often comes with pressure to create a picture-perfect celebration, but real life rarely looks like scenes from a Hollywood movie. If you notice your mood dipping, know that you’re not alone, and there are healthy ways to cope. Simple practices such as setting realistic expectations, maintaining a balanced routine, and carving out quiet time for yourself can make a significant difference. Staying connected—whether through a phone call, community event, or volunteering—can also help ease feelings of isolation. For more resources, you can visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or the Mayo Clinic’s guide on holiday stress. And if feelings of sadness become overwhelming or persistent, it’s essential to seek professional help—support is always available.

Prepare for the New Year: List and Schedule

"And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been," by Rainer Maria Rilke

The start of a new year offers more than resolutions—it’s a chance to shape the rhythm of the months to come thoughtfully. A little bit of planning now can help you step into the new year with clarity and confidence. Don’t let the thought intimidate you—by designing a simple life-maintenance checklist, you’re giving yourself the gift of a more balanced and intentional year. Below is a guide to help you get started

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Annual Physicals and Exams based on Age and Gender
Let’s put your health at the top of the list. Preventive care is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Schedule your annual physical and any screenings recommended for your age and gender, including mammograms, colonoscopies, cholesterol checks, and prostate exams. And don’t forget the essentials, such as dental checkups and vision exams. Scheduling these appointments isn’t just about staying on top of your health—it’s about giving yourself peace of mind. It’s easy to think, “I’ll do it later this week,” only for that “later” to stretch into next month—or even next year. Lock them in now and breathe a little easier. For more information on what screenings you should get based on your age and gender, visit Mayo Clinic's adult screening schedule.  

Mental Health Check-In
Your emotional well-being deserves the same care and attention as your physical health. Say it louder for those in the back: Physical health is only one piece of the puzzle—your mental well-being is just as important. Take time to reflect on how you’re feeling as you enter the year: Do you feel energized and balanced, or in need of extra support? Whether it’s booking time with a therapist, adopting a mindfulness practice, or simply carving out space for rest, small intentional steps can make a meaningful difference. Self-care is not an option; it is vital to your well-being.

Financial Outlook
Money may not buy happiness, but financial peace of mind sure helps. Financial wellness is another cornerstone of overall peace of mind. Start by reviewing your budget and adjusting daily expenses, then revisit your emergency fund to ensure it’s adequately funded. Consider your long-term goals as well—check on retirement contributions, update estate planning documents, and schedule time to meet with a financial advisor if needed. By tackling these financial touchpoints early in the year, you’ll free up mental energy for the things you genuinely enjoy.

Summary
As you look ahead, remember that preparation isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating space for what matters most. You are laying a foundation for a year filled with clarity, balance, and ease. Think of these steps as gifts to your future self—a way to ensure you can move through the months ahead with confidence and well-being.

 “You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment. Fools stand on their island of opportunities and look toward another land. There is no other land; there is no other life but this.” ― Henry David Thoreau.

From ALANYC and fitALANYC – Have a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!