The holiday season is upon us yet again, which means it’s time to start thinking about how we’re going to keep our sanity in check. The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun. But they can also be a time of stress and anxiety. There’s pressure to spend time with family, juggle work and social obligations, and not to mention the added financial burden that comes with creating memories and gift-giving. It’s no wonder so many of us end up feeling burnt out by the time New Year’s rolls around. But it doesn’t have to be this way! With a little bit of planning and some self-care, you can make it through the holiday season without losing your mind. Here are some Tips for Practicing Self-Care During the Holidays that will help you protect your peace this holiday season:
Tips for Practicing Self-Care: More Peace and Less Stress this Holiday Season
1. Be kind to yourself and set realistic expectations.
The holidays aren’t always going to be perfect. There will be arguments, stressful situations, and maybe even some disappointment. If you are hosting, it is not uncommon to put added stress on ourselves because one can feel overly responsible for creating a certain kind of memory for the people coming. During this time, it’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and for those around you. This way, you won’t be as likely to get overwhelmed or bogged down by the less than perfect moments.
2. Make time for yourself.
With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget to make time for yourself. But it’s so important to do things that make you happy and help you relax. Whether it’s taking a long bath, meditating, coloring, reading your favorite book, or going for a walk in nature, make sure to plan ahead and pencil in some purposeful “me” time into your holiday plans.
3. Don’t overextend yourself.
It’s tempting to try to do everything during the holidays – host gatherings, attend parties, shop for gifts, etc. During regular seasons, our life can sometimes be packed with commitments and responsibilities. The holidays can add more to an already busy schedule. Expecting ourselves to do everything can quickly lead to burnout. Be mindful of how much you’re taking on and say “no” when necessary. Your mental health is more important than anything else.
4. Eat healthy and exercise.
During the holidays, there are often more temptations than usual when it comes to food and drink. And while it’s okay to indulge occasionally, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine as best you can. This includes sleep. When you’re well-rested, you’re better able to handle stress. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Being mindful of these basic steps will go a long way to help improve your mood and give you more energy to get through all the holiday festivities.
5. Reach out for help if you need it.
If you find yourself struggling during the holidays, don’t be afraid to reach out for help from a friend or family member. Talk to someone who will understand and can offer support and guidance. And if your holiday blues last longer than a couple of weeks, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.
We all want the holidays to be a joyful time of year but sometimes they end up being more stressful than anything else. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you’re not enjoying the holiday season as much as you should be, make sure to practice self-care. By setting realistic expectations, making time for yourself, eating healthy, and exercising , you can help reduce stress and enjoy this special time of year much more fully. And if you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from those who care about you.