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The winter months can feel busy — full of family gatherings, holiday events, and the push to wrap up the year. But they also bring opportunities to pause, reset, and focus on your health. That’s why we created the 12 Days of Winter Wellness: a collection of small, meaningful steps to help you stay energized, balanced, and connected. 

Each day offers simple inspiration and free, trusted resources from Healthier Texas. Try one idea a day or mix and match to keep your health and wellness a priority all season long. Tag @healthiertx on your social channels and let us know which tips you are putting into practice!  

Day 1: Be Intentional 

Set a healthy goal for the day. Maybe that’s drinking 8 cups of water, taking a short walk, or practicing meditation. 

💡 Try this resource: Common Threads: Small Bites Program — fun, hands-on nutrition lessons that help youth build healthy habits. 

👉 Pick one goal today and stick with it — small changes add up! 

Day 2: Be Present 

Make the most of the moment. Call a friend for coffee, express gratitude, or unplug from technology for an hour. 

💡 Try this resource: Healthy Children, Healthy Families — a parenting-focused program that helps families balance healthy eating, activity, and screen time. 

👉 Put your phone away during a conversation today and enjoy being fully present. 

Day 3: Connect 

Strong relationships are key to well-being. Check in with someone you care about, meet up with friends, or send a handwritten note. 

💡 Try this resource: The OrganWise Guys Program — creative classroom and family activities that bring people together to learn about healthy living. 

👉 Reach out to one person today you haven’t connected with in a while. 

Day 4: Tune In 

Music is a powerful mood booster. Share a favorite song, create a new playlist, or have a mini dance party. 

💡 Try this resource: EatPlayGrow — a program that blends music, arts, and play to build healthy habits in families with young children. 

👉 Turn up the volume today and let music move you. 

Day 5: Read a Book 

Immerse yourself in a new world. Reading can reduce stress, spark creativity, and even improve sleep. 

💡 Try this resource: Grow It, Try It, Like It! — garden-themed storybooks and activities that make nutrition education fun for children. 

👉 Set aside 20 minutes today to read something just for you. 

Day 6: Show Gratitude 

Gratitude can shift your mindset. Start a journal, take time to reflect, or simply say “thank you.” 

💡 Try this resource: A Taste of Leafy Greens — a hands-on activity for children that inspires appreciation for healthy foods. 

👉 Write down three things you’re thankful for today. 

Day 7: Be Accountable 

Health goals are easier with support. Find a partner, join a health club, or sign up for our free tele-health coaching program. 

💡 Try this resource: Stay Strong, Stay Healthy — group classes that help older adults stay active and engaged. 

👉 Ask a friend to join you for a walk, class, or healthy challenge this week. 

Day 8: Find Community 

Wellness grows when we share it with others. Try a fitness class in person or online — explore free options at StrongerTexas.org. 

💡 Try this resource: Growing Stronger: Strength Training for Older Adults — a free program from the CDC designed to keep you strong and mobile. 

👉 Sign up for one new class or group activity this season. 

Day 9: Spend Quality Time 

Invest in what matters most — whether that’s time alone, with friends, or with family. 

💡 Try this resource: Growing Healthy Kids — a garden-themed curriculum for kids that invites families to learn and cook together. 

👉 Block out time on your calendar for meaningful connection this week. 

Day 10: Nourish Yourself 

Try a new vegetable, cook a healthy recipe, or explore world flavors. 

💡 Try this resource: Cooking Skills and World Cuisine — interactive cooking lessons that teach kids and families about nutrition through food and culture. 

👉 Cook one new recipe this week — and invite someone to join you in the kitchen. 

Day 11: Support Others 

Wellness also means caring for your community. Donate to a local nonprofit, check on a neighbor, or volunteer your time. 

💡 Try this resource: Cooking Matters at the Store — a program that helps families shop smart and stretch their food dollars, often with volunteer support. 

👉 Find one small way to give back today — kindness multiplies. 

Day 12: Challenge Yourself 

Push yourself to grow. Whether it’s a fitness goal, a new skill, or joining the Community Challenge, make this the season to stretch beyond your comfort zone. 

💡 Explore: StrongerTexas.org — your hub for statewide programs, classes, and health challenges. 

👉 Set one challenge for yourself this month — and go after it! 

Final Thoughts 

Wellness doesn’t have to mean big, overwhelming changes. Sometimes, the most powerful shifts come from small, consistent steps. Whether you choose to focus on music, gratitude, movement, or connection, every action matters — for you, your family, and your community. 

✨ Ready to keep going? Explore free fitness classes at StrongerTexas.org.