The holidays can be overwhelming with all of the demands and obligations upon you to joyously make things happen. So, why not plan on giving yourself some well-deserved breaks to keep you cool, calm, and stress-free? After all, self-care is a key ingredient in maintaining balance and finding your joy during the holiday season. Read on and choose from any or all of the delightful ways to give yourself a well-deserved gift of relaxation and self-indulgence during the holidays.
- Have a Spa Day at Home. No need to go anywhere or pay for expensive spa treatments when you can do this in the comfort of your own home. The easiest way is to put a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your bathroom and do the following: Run a hot bath and add scented bath salts, bath bombs, or bubbles; light some candles around the room; and tune into some relaxing music. Add a scented face mask or follow-up with an invigorating salt or body scrub. Read a book, do crosswords or fill-ins, or just soak. This is your me-time, so enjoy!
- Enjoy a Decadent Holiday Treats. The key word here is decadent. Eat something sweet or sugary, expensive, or exotic. Savor them mindfully – enjoy the smell, taste, and feel of this forbidden pleasure! Indulge in these holiday treats without guilt, after all, you deserve a holiday or two – or three – don’t you?.
- Plan a Holiday Movie Marathon. A holiday movie marathon is a way to drink-in the spirit of the holidays. You can do this alone – curled-up on the couch or in bed – or with family or a loved one. Whatever situation will allow you to immerse yourself in the moment. Pop some corn, surround yourself with some decadent holiday treats, fill a mug with hot cider, mulled wine, hot chocolate, or your favorite drink, and lose yourself in the holiday magic.
- Hold a Holiday Reading Retreat. You schedule your retreat in the tub during your spa time, or go to your favorite reading place and settle-in. Tell everyone you are off limits until whatever time you decide to lose yourself in the pages of a good story.
- Get Out and Explore Nature. Getting out-of-doors and into nature, is a great way to recharge your spirit. Go for a winter hike, visit a local park, or take a leisurely walk in your neighborhood to enjoy the holiday lights and decorations. Connecting with nature is a good way to clear your mind, get some exercise, and recharge.
- Engage in Retail Therapy. My wife likes to shop. She doesn’t always buy but she likes to know what’s available, what’s in style, and what’s on sale. She enjoys the ‘hunt’. When she is shopping for others she is very conscientious about finding the right gift – a meaningful or needed gift – for the one she is shopping for. Once that is accomplished she may treat herself – or me – to a little gift to make her feel good or say, “I love you”.
- Take Time to be Creative. It is important to be creative any time of year, but it is especially fun and easy during the holidays. You can create unique meals, decorations, gifts and more that reflect the uniqueness of each season. Being creative releases positive feelings about yourself and spread holiday joy throughout your home or activity.
- Practice Meditation and Mindfulness. Set aside time for meditation and mindfulness to calm your mind and reduce stress. Start by finding a quiet place, sit, and begin slow, deep breathing. You can also use guided meditation apps or simply sit in silence. Your goal is to clear your mind, focus on your breathing, and find a moment or two of inner peace.
- Plan a Virtual Get-Together. Friends and families are often spread out, and the pandemic has put additional stress on meeting in person. But with today’s technology you can schedule a virtual get-together. Connect over a phone or video call. The point is to connect so you stay up to date with people who care about you.
- Fill-up Your Senses. With all of the sights, sounds, smells, and feels of the holidays, there is no better time than this to let your senses be overwhelmed with the positivity and joy of the holiday. Close your eyes and breathe in the smells of food cooking, candles giving off their scents, pumpkin spice, the outdoorsy smell of pine. Open your eyes and see the indoor and outdoor decoration that surrounds you; see the lights, décor, icicles, snow on the ground. Listen to holiday music, carolers, logs burning in the fireplace, the laughter of little children, holiday shoppers. It is a glorious time to indulge your senses in delightful ways.
- Revisit Old Hobbies. Perhaps in the rush to get ready for company you have ignored a beloved hobby, be it a sport, a musical instrument, a puzzle, or crafting. If so, treat yourself to a few minutes of doing something that brings you fun, satisfaction, or pleasure. And, with family or friends around, it might be a good time to share your passion with them. Either way, treat yourself to your hobby.
- Give Back. Gift giving is always appreciated, but the way to both give and receive a gift is to give of your time and expertise to others. Volunteers are always needed, especially during the holidays, and it is a great way to show an act of kindness and to teach young people the value of giving.
So, the holidays are a great time to celebrate and to give, but don’t forget to give yourself love and care. Self-care is a gift that continues to give, as it helps you relax, rejuvenate, cope, and find joy amidst the busy season. Self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for your well-being. Treat yourself often during the holidays and you will find greater joy and satisfaction during those hectic times.
