Oh, the holidays! The most wonderful time of the year for some — and the most stressful for others. The holidays are jam-packed with all of the family get-togethers, and of course — finals.
Since this time of year is such a busy one for many people it can be easy to get wrapped up in the yuletide cheer as well as the end of semester craziness and forget to take care of yourself.
Sometimes, it can feel as though there is so much pressure to have a good time and be merry that we fail to remember we should always make time to care for ourselves.
Taking care of yourself does not just mean taking care of yourself physically — but mentally as well.
The end of the first semester for students is always a crazy one, it can feel as though teachers are cramming everything into the last two weeks of school.
The pressure to spend every waking moment studying for an upcoming exam while also balancing the end of year get-togethers can become overwhelming.
It is important to remember, especially at the end of the semester, that it is OK to take a break. It is more than OK to stop studying for the night if you feel like you can hardly open your eyes after you blink and are on your fifth cup of coffee.
There is no way to jam a semester's worth of knowledge into a brain. If you haven’t learned it yet — it is OK to call it a night and try again in the morning.
Never forget to make time for yourself, even if that means actually writing it out in a planner. Plan self-care days or even just an hour if that is all that can be spared.
Love yourself enough to listen to your body and listen to the warning signs when it is telling you to call it quits or take a break for the night from family time.
Take a bubble bath after a long day, read a book, drink some tea, write. Anything that makes you happy, relaxes you and gives you a minute away from the real world — just for a little bit.
There are so many different ways to take care of yourself mentally and physically.
You need to do what’s right for you — no matter the time of year; even if it makes some people confused or upset.
You should never feel guilty doing what is right for you. It can be hard to make time for yourself.
Always keep in mind, though, self-care is for the entire year — even the holidays.
