While the holiday season brings joy and cheer, it can also result in stress and exhaustion. While you’re busy spreading holiday cheer, prioritizing self-care is essential to ensure you stay merry and bright throughout the festivities. Here are 6 tips on how to prioritize self-care during the holidays to nurture your well-being and allow you to fully embrace the spirit of the season.
How To Prioritize Self-Care During The Holidays
1. Set Realistic Expectations
Contrary to what you see on social media, the holiday season doesn’t need to be picture-perfect. Understand that it’s okay if everything doesn’t go according to plan. Setting realistic expectations for yourself and your celebrations can eliminate unnecessary pressure and create a more enjoyable holiday.
2. Carve Out Time For Yourself
Amid the holiday hustle and bustle, be sure to take care of yourself. Schedule time for activities that recharge you. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, make intentional efforts to relax and restore your energy. Embracing the little things can bring a sense of calm between all the holiday excitement.
3. Establish Boundaries
Setting boundaries during the holidays is an act of self-care that allows you to fully embrace the joy of the season without sacrificing your well-being. By reflecting on priorities, communicating openly, and practicing self-compassion, you can create a holiday experience that is both festive and fulfilling. This could include…
- Declining invitations or requests that may overwhelm you
- Clearly communicating what you are comfortable with and where you may need support in maintaining a healthy balance during the holidays
- Delegating responsibilities to family members or friends so you don’t have to carry the entire burden of holiday preparations
4. Practice Self-Awareness
Navigating emotional triggers during the holidays can be challenging. Reflect on past holiday experiences to identify specific situations or interactions that trigger an emotional response. Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment, allowing yourself to acknowledge and validate your emotions. If a situation becomes too overwhelming, give yourself permission to step back. It’s okay to take a break, excuse yourself from a conversation, or leave an event if necessary.
5. Maintain Healthy Habits
There is always an uptick in illnesses during the holidays. The last thing you want is to get sick when traveling or seeing family and friends. Decrease your chances of catching a bug by making sure you get enough sleep, stay hydrated, keep your hands clean, keep your wipes handy, and wear a mask if it makes you more comfortable. And balance sweet treats by eating your fruits and veggies.
6. Treat Yourself
There’s nothing like a bit of retail therapy to relieve stress. So, while you are busy checking off your list, get a little something for yourself too! You do so much for others all year, so don’t feel guilty about adding something to the cart just for you. It’s a reflection of self-love, gratitude, and an acknowledgment of your personal journey throughout the year. Besides reducing stress, spending a little extra time, energy, and money on yourself is guaranteed to boost your mood and lift your spirit.
Taking care of yourself is one of the best gifts you can give this time of year. Follow these tips on how to prioritize self-care during the holidays for a meaningful and memorable season of joy and connection. Wishing you a holiday season filled with warmth, peace, and the glow of well-deserved self-care!
Be inspired,
