When you think of the holidays, twinkling lights, hot cocoa, festive cheer, and time with friends and family come to mind. Too many people understand that the holidays typically bring about stress and pressure. Planning gatherings, hosting parties, and managing financial concerns are just a few things that come with the season. That’s why we recommend you take some time for self-care in order to nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
What Is Self-Care?
In a nutshell, self-care is any action or effort that preserves or improves your overall health or wellbeing. That is especially true during periods of stress. Self-care is especially important during the holidays, as it balances the pressure you put on yourself or what others put on you to fulfill expectations. Create a buffer for yourself using self-care practices, which can look different for everyone. Some people may need a relaxing bath, while others may simply need to say no to holiday commitments. Consider the following self-care tips to have a stress-free holiday.
Make Time For Movement
Physical activity, even if it is a brisk walk in the crisp winter air during your lunch break, is a great way to relieve stress. Find time to move in ways that are supportive to your body. Gentle movements, such as yoga or stretching, can be highly beneficial, especially if you sit all day for work. During time with family, spend time walking around the neighborhood and admire the lights.
Practice Positive Affirmations
A simple practice of saying positive affirmations for a couple minutes every day can help reinforce a sense of inner peace. You can also meditate for five minutes every day to help reduce stress and center yourself. Alternatively, practice gratitude by keeping a daily gratitude journal. Write down five things (big or small) that you are grateful for!
Set Healthy Boundaries
This tip applies to family or friends, because you should always do what is comfortable for you. Attend the number of events that you want, know your limits, and do not be afraid to communicate them with friends or families. Just remember that it is perfectly acceptable to turn down invitations or delegate tasks during chaotic times.
Stay Hydrated
With all the hustle and bustle, you can easily forget to both eat and drink water. Drinking water throughout the day can help improve digestion, manage stress, prevent unnecessary snacking, and improve overall wellbeing. If you are not great about drinking water, carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times. You can even set alarms on your phone to remind yourself to drink more water.
Stick To A Budget
Be mindful of what you can and cannot afford in order to reduce financial stress this holiday season. Plan your spending and stick to it! Use budgeting apps to help you avoid over-spending and remember that it is ultimately the thought behind the gift that means more than how much you spend.
Take Social Breaks
Socializing can take a lot out of you, so it is no wonder that you feel exhausted after attending a party or gathering. It is essential to incorporate solitary quiet time to help you reconnect with yourself. Look for moments in your schedule where you can schedule solitude, even if it is only for 15 minutes. Consider meditating or doing your affirmations during this time as well.
Express Emotions Openly
The holidays can stir up a mixture of emotions. Do not hold these feelings inside; rather, allow yourself the freedom to express what you are feeling, be it joy, sadness, stress, etc. Keep a journal or schedule a weekly call with someone you trust and can openly vent to. Sharing emotions with someone you trust can be incredibly relieving, so do not be afraid to seek support this holiday season.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
