The holidays can be a time of joy, celebration, and connection. However, they can also bring added stress, pressure, and overwhelming expectations. Between balancing end-of-year work obligations, family expectations, and holiday traditions, it’s easy to forget about yourself. But prioritizing self-care during the holidays is essential for maintaining your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Let’s talk about some ways to practice self-care during the holidays:
Set Realistic Expectations. One of the most significant sources of holiday stress comes from trying to do it all. Whether it’s hosting the perfect party, buying the perfect gifts, or creating the ideal festive atmosphere, it’s easy to fall into the trap of perfectionism. Instead of stressing over unrealistic goals, set achievable expectations for yourself. For example, instead of cooking all the family favorites, try asking for help from loved ones, ordering in some pre-made side dishes, or starting a new tradition all together that is more stress-free.
Remember that it’s okay to say no to certain events or activities, and it’s fine if things aren’t picture-perfect. Focus on what really matters to you—whether that’s spending quality time with loved ones, resting, or just enjoying a quiet moment. Sometimes at the end of the year, there can be so much peace in taking a moment just for yourself and reflecting on everything that has come forward these last 12-months.
Establish Boundaries. During the holidays, you might feel the pressure to attend every event, visit every relative, or keep up with all the social obligations. While it’s important to stay connected with those you care about, it’s equally important to set healthy boundaries.
Be mindful of how much energy and time you’re committing to others and ensure that you are not overextending yourself. It’s okay to politely decline an invitation or excuse yourself from a long event if you feel it’s too much. Setting boundaries allows you to take care of your own needs and avoid burnout.
Make Time for Yourself. Amid the chaos, make time for activities that fill your cup. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet morning with a cup of tea, reading a book, or taking a long walk in nature, doing things that relax and refresh you is essential. Taking these moments of solitude can help you recharge and come back to your holiday activities with more energy and a clearer mind.
If you can, try to schedule some “me-time” each day. Even a few minutes of deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help you stay grounded and present.
Prioritize Sleep. The holidays can disrupt our sleep patterns due to late-night parties, early morning gift-giving, or simply the excitement of the season. But getting enough rest is crucial for your physical and mental health. Lack of sleep can increase stress, impair your mood, and leave you feeling drained.
To improve your sleep quality, aim for a consistent sleep schedule, limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, and create a calming bedtime routine. A good night’s sleep will help you handle the demands of the holiday season with more energy and patience.
Focus on Nutrition. The holidays are rife with many treats and indulgences. You do not have to say no to all of these and it can be part of the merriment and shared food is often a way that families connect. But amidst all of this, it’s still important to balance your diet with nutritious foods that nourish your body and support your immune system. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help you feel energized and maintain your physical well-being.
You don’t have to avoid all the festive foods, but try to include healthy options alongside them. Hydrate well by drinking water and remember that moderation is key. Your body will thank you for taking care of it during this season.
Practice Gratitude. The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Practicing gratitude can improve your mood, increase feelings of well-being, and help you focus on the positive aspects of life, even when things feel hectic.
Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. Whether it’s the support of friends, the beauty of winter, or the simple pleasure of a warm beverage, recognizing what you appreciate can lift your spirits and bring perspective to your holiday experience.
Engage in Light Physical Activity. Physical movement is one of the best ways to reduce stress and boost your mood. During the holidays, you may find it harder to maintain a regular workout routine due to time constraints or weather conditions, but even light exercise can make a big difference.
Go for a walk, stretch, dance to your favorite holiday music, or practice yoga. These activities can help you stay physically active and clear your mind. Plus, they offer a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the winter air. Don’t set unrealistic expectations if this feels overwhelming – even just 15-30 minutes a day can make a big difference in your self-care during the holidays.
Connect with Others. We are social beings and as overwhelming as all the holiday gatherings can sometimes feel, it’s also important to stay connected with loved ones. The holidays are a time for bonding and creating new memories. Being grateful for all the people in your life, the loved ones you are able to see, and the relationships you have fostered can be really powerful. Take a moment to reflect on all the wonderful people in your life. But remember to maintain your boundaries as you move through this season. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by larger crowds or family events, allow yourself a break or step away when needed.
Limit Screen Time. In a world where we’re constantly connected through social media and digital communication, it’s easy to get caught up in scrolling and comparing ourselves to others. The holiday season can intensify these feelings, as we see curated images of what other people are doing.
To protect your mental health, try to limit screen time, especially on social media. Instead, focus on enjoying the present moment and creating your own memories. When you disconnect from the digital world, you’ll find more space for connection with yourself and those around you.
Be Kind to Yourself. The holidays can sometimes bring about feelings of stress, loneliness, or sadness, especially if you’ve experienced loss or are facing personal challenges. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, give yourself permission to experience those emotions without judgment.
Remember that you don’t have to have a picture-perfect holiday experience. Be kind to yourself, acknowledging your feelings, and taking steps to nurture your well-being.
So, take a deep breath, embrace the moments that truly matter, and remember that self-care during the holidays is the best gift you can give to yourself this season.
If you would like extra support this holiday season and prioritize your mental health, contact us today and speak with a licensed therapist for a complimentary consultation.
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