6 Ways to Practice Self-Care During the Holidays
Suggestions to Practice Self-Care with the Holidays on Your Heels
Taking Care of Yourself During the Holidays Should be a Priority
I love all the seasons. They all have great and unique things about them. However, the Holiday season is magical. I love the smells, the food, the happiness. It is all wonderful.
But what about when the Holidays aren’t so magical?
The Holidays are hard. It is rushing to and from various places. Trying to make quality time for all the people in your life. The shopping and money worries. Then let’s throw in all the cooking.
What do you buy for Grandpa? Who is allergic to what? We have two Holiday parties on the same day, can we make both? Oh, no I forgot to mail the Christmas cards.
That is an example of a pretty good Holiday time talk with myself. Does it sound fun and magical? NO, it’s stressful and frantic. I am pretty sure I am not the only one.
Here is the thing, you have to take care of yourself during the frantic times or you won’t be able to take care of others.
Embrace the Holidays for what they are
They are stressful, but they should be meaningful. It is time with your loved ones. Plus, if you are religious, they have a pretty significant meaning that we sometimes lose sight of.
Additionally, the Holidays can be a tough time for people who have lost someone. It is important to take a step back and remember those who have gone before us during this time, while also balancing that with taking care of yourself mentally. Keep in mind that everyone copes in a different way with loss.
The 6 Ways I practice Self-Care during the Holidays
1. Skin care screams self-care.
I love spa days. Even DIY at home spa days are so pampering. I am researching new products and using up some masks that I have had laying around. I have discovered extra steps past washing my face. This includes toners and serums.
My skin has needed the extra care due to stress and diet. I’ve also discovered that the relaxing 20 minute daily routine has contributed positively to getting a good night’s sleep.
There is something in taking time to focus only on my skin care during those peaceful 20 minutes that really helps to wind down from the day mentally.
2. I signed up for a Monthly Book Subscription
Normally, I go to the library fairly often. I love browsing various titles. However, Covid-19 ruined that. I was looking at various ways to continue reading newer titles affordably and I stumbled upon Book subscription boxes.
When my first book arrived it totally made my day. I love getting mail, but a nice heavy package that contained entertainment to last me a few days? I was pretty excited. The entire process was fun, from choosing my read for that month to waiting on the book to arrive and then getting to read it after all the anticipation. It was great.
Now, that being said, if you aren’t a reader that’s okay. Maybe make-up is more your thing. Or maybe you live for coffee. There are subscription boxes for everyone.
Your self- care also doesn’t have to come in a subscription box and it shouldn’t break your budget. It is all about just giving yourself a little something. You are so busy buying gifts for everyone else, grab something for yourself. Spend an hour browsing lotion scents or candles till you find something you like. Perhaps you could grab that new blouse you’ve had your eye on.
What I’m trying to say here is think about yourself for a moment and get a little something you want.
3. I Started Doing Yoga
I have never done Yoga. I have always been a little hesitant about signing up for a class, a little afraid of not completely knowing what I was doing. However, I started with some free beginner’s videos in the privacy of my own home and it was wonderful. It was refreshing, and exactly what I needed to help me cope with some of the stressors I have put on my body.
This has helped me to physically and mentally practice self-care. I find that doing this first thing in the morning has contributed to my overall day as I am now entering into my mornings refreshed and ready to conquer.
4. I Started a Bullet Journal
I love planners, I love organization, I like pen & paper. Basically, the bullet journal has been calling my name for years and I’ve resisted because I was too lazy to research and get started.
I have been missing out. A) It is super easy to get started. B) It opened up a whole new giant dose of motivation. My to-do lists found a home all in one journal and my mind stayed on track a whole lot easier. Plus, the coloring and drawing I did in my journal was a nice break on the mind.
5. I Let Myself Enjoy the Holidays
This might just be the most important way I practice self-care during the Holidays. It sounds like the most simple, when in reality it was the hardest.
It is easy to love a good Christmas Carol or a snowman shaped sugar cookie dripping in icing, but do we really let ourselves enjoy the season?
For me, the answer was no. I was too concerned with perfect gifts, staying in budget, and frantically organizing family schedules. What happened to baking those snowmen cookies, drinking cocoa, and watching the classic movies? I had to slow down. Present wrapping could wait, and it was okay to accept help with all those Christmas chores.
6. I Invested in a New Blanket
So from the paragraphs above you know I love to read and I love Holiday Movies. None of those hobbies were complete without this snugly, cozy blanket. I adore fuzzy blankets. (In case anyone was wondering the blanket I chose was also Sammy Kitten approved.) Find something that brings you a little comfort, it doesn’t have to be a blanket. It could be a new pillow for a better night sleep or a new oil diffuser.
It’s okay to think about yourself during the Holidays.
Remember, this is just a general list of ways I have found to help myself mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually get through the Holidays. You have to find what works for you, but remember you can’t take care of others till you are taken care of.
Looking for an Easy Breakfast During the Holidays? Check out my Bacon & Roasted Red Pepper Quiche.
