The holidays are a joyous, festive time, but they can come with a lot of stress, too. During the season of hosting and gifting, it’s important to remember to set aside time daily to care of yourself, even if just in small ways. Thankfully, most retailers cater to the holidays, so you can enjoy a bit of self-care with the scent or taste of your favorite holiday treat. From bites to baths, there is something kind you can do for yourself, no matter how much time you have.
Bake
Baking is a great form of self-care, as you’re pausing everything else and putting your mind’s focus toward a slow, soothing activity. If desired, this could be something done with friends or family. The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats, so there’s a variety of options for holiday recipes. Ideas to consider include pumpkin pie, gingerbread men, sugar cookies, peppermint bark, and fudge. All of these treats can be adjusted to make it a guilt-free dessert, but don’t forget to have a little fun with personalization and decoration. Consider switching sugar for honey, agave, pure maple syrup, or an alternative sweetener. Dairy and gluten products can also be exchanged to make it skin and stomach-friendly. A simple flour alternative that can come in handy during the baking season is grinding/blending oats to make your own oat flour! Baking is a calming activity that leaves treats for days.
Prioritize exercise
While exercising might not seem like the most relaxing activity, it will do wonders for your mental and physical health during such a hectic period. Aim for 20-30 minutes of cardio daily, but you can make this a fun event! If you’re in private, turn up your speakers and play all of your favorite holiday songs, or simply turn up the volume for your headphones. Playing your favorite tunes will lift your spirits as you take care of your body, making this a great way to care for yourself this season. Many YouTube videos offer holiday-focused workout routines, too, so you can always try something new.
Keep a gratitude journal
As the holiday season is all about planning, scheduling, traveling, gifting, and of course, spending, it’s important to hold your values close. Every day try jotting down a few things you’re grateful for. Practicing gratitude increases dopamine and serotonin since your brain is actively searching for positivity. Keeping a journal, in general, this season is a great outlet to release any emotion.
Treat yourself
As you’re wrapping gifts for everyone else, it can be nice to buy a small gift for yourself, too. Local and larger beauty stores are full of seasonal body washes, bath bombs, candles, skincare, and more. Take a gingerbread or peppermint scented bath while indulging in a luxurious face mask. Do a quick 20-minute session or longer, if possible. Self-care doesn’t have to be monetary, but allow yourself a treat when the time comes!
Live in the moment
Most importantly, value your time. Say “no” if something just doesn’t work with your schedule, as you are allowed to decide what events work for you. The holidays are a time to be celebrated with family and friends, so enjoy each moment you spend with them. It can be easy to become wrapped up in all of the stress, but relax your spirit and surround yourself with positive, loving people this season.
This holiday season, try making an active effort to take care of your wellbeing. Time is best spent when it can be enjoyed to the fullest, so make your health a priority and have a happy holiday!
