You should always prioritize your self-care, but the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can sometimes throw our typical routines out the window. And if we weren’t good at self-care before the holiday season, where will that leave us during the “hustle and bustle?” You don’t want to become so busy that you become anxious, tired, or even bitter about the holidays.
Going along with the 12 days of Christmas theme, let’s look at 12 self-care activities you can do this holiday season.
1)
Sleep in – don’t underestimate the power of sleep. Sleep experts will say that you should try to maintain the same sleep schedule even on the weekends, but the reality is that there are times that our bodies just need that extra bit of sleep. If you know you’ve reached that point and you can get the help you need to give yourself some extra bit of sleep… go for it! If your schedule or routine (aka kids) don’t allow for you to sleep in, then I highly recommend a 15-minute power nap on those days you’re feeling a little run down.
2)
Read a book – this allows you to slow down and be intentional with your time. Plus, you get to choose what you’re focusing on. I’m not much of a reader myself, I prefer to consume audiobooks, so I say this still counts - as long as you’re able to feel the benefits. If you are a reader and want a quick, easy read, my book,
His Body Our Amputation, will take you on my vulnerable journey. It will give insight into why self-care is a major part of what I teach. Wink.
3)
Go for a walk – You know the benefits of walking, so I won't bore you in rehashing them.
😉 Some of us live in colder climates so this might not seem as appealing during the holidays, but have you ever bundled up and gone for a walk at night? Not only do you get your blood flowing, but you’ll experience the benefits of the beautiful Christmas lights – a twofer! Like a serene walk on the beach, if you’ve experienced a walk with light snow falling it’s pretty magical too.
4)
See a movie – maybe you’re like me and feel like 2020 threw a wrench into the movie-making land, but if you’re not about to find something at the theater that floats your boat that’s okay. You can create a potentially even better experience at home. Afterall, you can fast forward through previews/credits, not overpay for snacks and you can pause to pee!
5)
Play games – whether you like video games, card games or good ol’ board games, the benefits to your mental health can be fantastic. I know my competitive friends might think otherwise, but playing games can also relieve stress and build camaraderie with your opponents, if you’re able [and want] to include others in your play.
6)
Plan a vacation – most of us understand the value that vacations give us, but did you know that the act of planning a vacation can be equally beneficial? Even if this is a “dream” vacation for another time in your life, planning a vacation can boost your happiness, reduce stress, and best of all can be the catalyst for motivation.
7)
Look at Christmas lights – it’s proven that Christmas lights give us a spike of the feel-good hormone, dopamine. Christmas lights are bright and colorful which is like an auto response to joy - it has a direct, positive impact on the brain. We also typically have a bit of nostalgia with the holiday season, so that helps too.
8)
Get cozy – there is a Nordic word, Hygge, pronounced “hoo-gah,” that is the practice of finding joy in everyday moments. I agree. When it comes to self-care, finding comfort and/or joy in the small things and getting cozy takes things up a notch. Things like sipping on a warm beverage, an embracing hug, soft sheets, fuzzy socks, snuggling under a blanket, nestling in a chair, a dimly lit room, or diffusing an aroma that makes you feel good. By the way, doTERRA has a warm, inviting Hygge Cozy essential oil blend that’s amazing.
9)
Order in – you do ALL-THE-THINGS and especially with all the extra activities in the holiday season you should give yourself “permission” to treat yourself to ordering a meal for delivery. Ordering in can feel indulgent and can also just meet your needs on a busy night. Perhaps you can even pair it with one of the other activities, like watching a movie at home or playing games!
10)
Wrap gifts – if you’re wrapping gifts chances are it’s because you’re intending on giving a gift. And since gift giving comes with a myriad of benefits, like building connections, or feeling elation, excitement, and delight, I say get to wrapping!
11)
Spend time with friends – I specifically say friends because the holidays tend to focus on family gatherings. And while, I hope, you have a great relationship with your family we all know or at least understand the drama that can ensure with family. When you spend time with friends, choose to hang around people who support and love you without bringing any unnecessary drama. This is a huge form of self-care as it fosters connections and a sense of belonging, improves your self-worth and boosts your overall happiness.
12) Do something silly/fun – life is too short to be so serious all the time. Give yourself permission to be creative, lighthearted and playful. Science points to you being able to handle stressful situations with a little more ease when you embrace a little silliness in your life. Oh, and don’t forget to laugh too! Laughing reduces stress, decreases pain, eases tension, and boosts immunity.
Self-care is not a one-size fits all. I believe that self-care is a personal journey – what works for one might not work for another so as always, the tips I’m sharing today are meant to spur your own thoughts about the self-care activities that light you up. Pun intended, hahaha!
My self-care journal,
The Self-Care Method, was designed to help you cultivate the life you desire with small daily habits. I’ve got 111 self-care ideas, as my goal is to help demystify what self-care means and looks like. I’d love to personally help you on your journey and the journal is a great [and simple] place to start.
Enjoy the holidays!
xoDanette