The holidays can bring joy and whimsy and so many people love this time of year, but for others, this can also be a stressful time. Here some great self-care tips to help take care of yourself, to help you not be so stressed out and be able to enjoy the holidays.
1. Have a morning routine
Having a morning routine can help get your day going right, taking a little time for yourself can put you in a better mood. Your routine can be anything from five to 40 minutes it all depends on you, but take this time for yourself. This can be getting ready in the morning, or just making your favorite cup of coffee or tea and sitting outside.
2. Journaling
Everyone has stressful days, but being able to write down how your day went, good or bad can help. This can help clear your mind from any clutter.
3. Music
Music is a great way to relieve stress and bring your mood up, Make a playlist of your favorite songs, turn it on when your day needs a boost, and just get lost in your favorite songs, and even dancing around can make your day so much better.
4. Take a walk
Go outside and take a walk. Bundle up if it's cold and head out with the intention of noticing the magic. Don't worry about burning calories or tracking steps, just enjoy yourself. This time is about you.
5. Have a budget
Once you figure out what you can spend on extras like holiday gifts, events, and other holiday things, honor that. If you splurge now, you may even it out later. And later comes sooner than you think. Let your family know you have a budget and that traveling to see them may not be feasible.
6. Don't feel guilty
Don't feel guilty this holiday season because you eat a cupcake or indulge in a little more food than you usually do. You can eat well but still eat the food you love — depriving yourself of things your love can make stress and depression worse around the holidays.
7. Take a nap
Taking a nap can help reenergize you, even if it is just 10-15 minutes taking a nap during the day, can make your mind and body feel better.
8. Make a holiday bucket list
Making a holiday bucket list can make a big difference. If you have kids and a partner, write down what you would like to do with them this holiday season. This gives you a chance to have fun and make memories with the ones you love. You can do this even if you're single, write a list of all the things you want to do.
9. Get crafty
Instead of spending a lot of money on gifts for loved ones, have your kids make something, grandparents, aunts and uncles will love this, and it will hold more memories than something you buy at a store.
10. Just breathe
When you are feeling overwhelmed just breathe. If you're feeling depressed, breath. Feeling sad? Like you need to scream? Just breathe, in and out deep and slow. This can help over-thinking and stress.
Taking care of yourself is key every day, but the holiday season can bring stress and depression, so doing some of the simplest things can make you feel better. Because if you can't take care of yourself how can you take care of others.
