The holidays are a magical time filled with love, joy, and the opportunity to make cherished memories. But let’s face it: they can also be incredibly stressful.
Between shopping for the perfect gifts, wrapping them with precision, preparing elaborate meals, baking cookies, attending events, and ensuring that everyone around you feels cared for, it’s easy to lose sight of one important person—yourself.
If you’ve ever found yourself so wrapped up (pun intended) in holiday preparations that you feel more like a holiday elf than a human being, it’s time to hit pause. This season, let’s prioritize self-care alongside spreading holiday cheer. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Here are some simple, low-cost or no-cost ways to nurture yourself during the hectic holiday season:
1. Schedule a Daily Quiet Moment
Set aside 10–15 minutes each day to simply breathe and be present. Whether it’s sipping a warm cup of tea in silence, meditating, or journaling your thoughts, this small act can help you reset and find calm amidst the chaos.
Pro Tip: Create a cozy nook in your home with a soft blanket and a candle. Even five minutes here can feel like a mini retreat.
2. Take a Walk in Nature
Bundle up and head outdoors for a brisk walk. The fresh air and movement can do wonders for your mood and energy levels.
Bonus: the natural light can help combat winter blues.
3. Practice Gratitude
Amid the hustle, take a moment to reflect on the positives. Write down three things you’re grateful for each day. This simple practice shifts your focus away from stress and towards joy.
4. Create a “Just for Me” Ritual
Pick one thing that’s just for you and make it a priority. It could be enjoying a luxurious bath, reading a chapter of your favorite book, or watching a lighthearted holiday movie.
5. Simplify Your To-Do List
Remember, perfection isn’t the goal. Let go of tasks that aren’t absolutely necessary. For example, store-bought cookies are just as appreciated as homemade ones, and gift bags are a fantastic alternative to meticulous wrapping.
6. Move Joyfully
Incorporate movement that makes you feel good. Whether it’s dancing to your favorite holiday tunes, stretching, or following a quick workout like the 15-minute sessions from our Wellness Warriors Ignite program, movement can help reduce stress and keep your energy levels up.
7. Practice Mindful Eating
The holidays often come with indulgent meals and sweet treats. Instead of depriving yourself, focus on mindful eating.
Savor each bite, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Include plenty of whole, plant-rich foods to balance out the festive indulgences.
8. Say “No” Without Guilt
It’s okay to set boundaries. Politely decline invitations or requests that feel overwhelming. Your time and energy are precious, and it’s important to protect them.
9. Reconnect With Your “Why”
Remember the reason you’re doing all of this. Is it to create joy, show love, or make memories?
Keep your purpose in mind and let it guide you, rather than getting caught up in societal pressures to do it all.
10. Celebrate Your Wins
At the end of each day, acknowledge what you accomplished, no matter how small.
Did you find five minutes for yourself? That’s a win.
Did you move your body? Another win.
Celebrating these moments can build a positive momentum.
Remember, You Deserve Care Too
The holidays are a season of giving, but that giving should include yourself. By taking the time to rest, recharge, and nurture your well-being, you’ll not only feel better, but you’ll also have more energy and joy to share with those around you.
So this holiday season, give yourself the gift of self-care. You deserve it.
