7 Holiday Myths We’re Done Believing: A Healthier December Starts Here
- lchabut
- Dec 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 12
Let’s call out the seasonal nonsense. December shows up every year with the same myths, the same pressure, and the same noise. If we’re going to get through the month in one piece, we need to cut through the fluff and talk about what’s actually true for our bodies, our energy, and our sanity. Here’s the reality check your feed won’t give you.
Myth #1: “Everyone gains 5–10 pounds in December.”
That number gets thrown around like it’s gospel, but it’s exaggerated. Most people gain a pound or two, not ten. The real culprit isn’t the food itself—it’s the mindset of “I’ll fix it in January.” Your body doesn’t spiral because you ate stuffing; it spirals when you sprint through the holidays with no sleep, no water, and stress hormones through the roof. Try these simple 5 minute ab exercises twice a day to help keep you active Why Going It Alone May Be Holding You Back
Myth #2: “Holiday stress is just part of the deal.”
No, it’s not mandatory. Stress isn’t built into December like ornaments on a tree. It’s usually a product of overcommitting, skipping basic self-care, and trying to play hostess/employee/mom/friend-of-the-year all at once. Protect your bandwidth. It’s not heroic to run yourself into the ground to make an aesthetic moment happen. Try our Founder and Wellness expert LaReine Chabut's simple yoga stretch to help keep you zen
Myth #3: “Cold weather ruins your skin.”
Cold weather challenges your skin, but it doesn’t sabotage it unless you leave it hanging. Your barrier doesn’t break because temperatures drop—it breaks when you’re dehydrated, over-exfoliated, and forgetting that moisturizer is your winter BFF. A humidifier, thicker cream, and cutting back on stripping products go farther than any seasonal panic. Try our Expert Dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban's tips for winter skin Your No-Fluff Holiday Skin Plan: Control Stress, Cut Cortisol, and Keep Your Glow Intact
Myth #4: "You have to say yes to everything"
December creates a weird cultural obligation vortex. Your calendar fills up before you even decide what you want. But boundaries are wellness tools, not personality flaws. If your body is begging for a night in with a blanket instead of a party with 40 acquaintances, that’s not antisocial—that’s aligned.
Myth #5: “Holiday drinks don’t count.”
Peppermint mochas and spiked cider absolutely count. Liquid calories still hit your system the same way, and alcohol disrupts sleep, hydration, and inflammation. You don’t have to cut everything out—just trade default decisions for intentional ones. Enjoy the treat; don’t let it run the month.
Myth #6: “Your routine is doomed until January.”
This one does the most damage. The truth is your routine doesn’t need to be perfect to be effective. Even 10-minute workouts, a water bottle you actually use, and choosing vegetables once a day keep your baseline intact. December isn’t a free-for-all unless you decide it is. Try our Expert Registered Dietician Ilana Muhlstein's tips for healthier eating Mindful Meals for Mom: Healthy Plates, Lighter Mind, Stronger You 🥑
Myth #7: “More is better.”
More events, more gifts, more baking, more everything. But your nervous system doesn’t celebrate excess—it just tries to survive it. Minimalism isn’t boring; it’s strategic. A simpler December usually feels better, looks better, and lands you in January without the “I need a detox from my life” energy.
December doesn’t have to drain you. When you stop playing by outdated holiday myths, you get to build a month that supports you instead of works against you. Small, steady choices add up fast, and you’re absolutely capable of steering this season in a direction that feels calmer, healthier, and more you. The month isn’t magic—you are, and you get to decide how this season goes. You got this Mama!
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