How to Keep Employees Healthy and Engaged During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for celebration and connection—but it can also bring added stress, fatigue, and disrupted routines. Between year-end deadlines, social events, and personal obligations, employee health and engagement can easily take a backseat. With a few intentional strategies, organizations can help their teams stay healthy, motivated, and balanced through the holiday rush.

1. Encourage Work-Life Balance

Remind employees to use their vacation days and truly unplug when away from work. Promote realistic expectations around year-end workloads and discourage after-hours emails when possible. Modeling this balance from leadership helps create a healthier workplace culture.

2. Promote Stress Management Resources

Offer short stress-reduction activities throughout the season—such as mindfulness breaks, chair yoga, or guided breathing sessions. Remind employees about Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), wellness coaching, or mental health resources available through your organization.

3. Keep Wellness Fun and Festive

The holidays are the perfect time to keep wellness lighthearted. Try organizing a “Maintain Don’t Gain” challenge, a steps competition, or a gratitude campaign. These programs foster friendly competition and encourage employees to stay active and positive during a busy time of year.

4. Support Healthy Eating Choices

With endless treats in the breakroom, balance is key. Provide healthy snack options, share nutritious recipe swaps, or host a potluck featuring lighter holiday dishes. Even small efforts can make it easier for employees to make mindful choices.

5. Create Opportunities for Connection

Employee engagement thrives when people feel connected. Host team-building activities that focus on gratitude, giving back, or community service. Volunteer projects or donation drives not only strengthen teams but also boost morale and purpose.

6. Celebrate and Appreciate

Recognition goes a long way in keeping employees engaged. Take time to celebrate accomplishments, express appreciation, and acknowledge the hard work that made the year successful. A simple thank-you can make a lasting impact.

The Bottom Line: By supporting physical health, mental well-being, and meaningful connection, organizations can help employees finish the year strong—and start the new year refreshed. A little intention during the holidays goes a long way in building a culture of wellness that lasts all year long.

Schedule a free consultation with Kristine Keykal, CEO and Co-Owner to review your employee wellness program:

Email Kristine at kkeykal@advantagehealth.com to get started or call 612.823.4470 (select option “1”).

Let Kristine Keykal, M.P.H, co-founder of AdvantageHealth with over 25 years of experience, consult with you on your employee wellness program.

Since 2001, Minnesota-based AdvantageHealth has been delivering award-winning employee wellbeing programs and fitness center design & management throughout the U.S.