The holidays are always a busy time, which makes them very stressful. There is always a holiday party to attend, presents to buy and food to cook. We get so caught up in taking care of those around us and making everything perfect, that we forget to relax and practice any self-care for ourselves.
However, this is the time we need to practice self-care the most.
When I was younger and knew nothing of self-care, I would always get sick a few days after Christmas. Like many of us, I thought everything had to be perfect, and I would run myself ragged to accomplish that. I had no idea that I could throw a holiday party and relax at the same time.
I no longer allow myself to get that way, and I don’t want you to either. This season let’s practice loving and taking care of ourselves more.
Here are my favorite self-care tips for surviving the holiday season:
Deep Breathing.
I’ve talked about deep breathing many times and the importance of it. When you are feeling stressed, this is the easiest and quickest thing to help, you relax. As you breathe in through your nose, mentally count to five. Hold your breath for a count of three, then release again through your nose. Do this anytime you feel stressed.
Listen to Music.
While you’re busy wrapping gifts and your mind is making lists of all the things you need to do, why not listen to music to relax? It will help you stay present at the moment, while you sing your favorite tunes.
Buy Yourself A Present.
What? Buy yourself a present? Who does that? You do! It is perfectly fine to indulge in yourself a bit. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. Buy yourself your favorite self-care item or treat. Wrap it up and place it under the tree for yourself.
Bubble Bath & Candles.
Need I say more? Who doesn’t feel amazing after having a hot bubble bath and candles? Tell everyone to leave you alone for thirty minutes then soak. Add some of your favorite music, baths salts, and even a glass of wine.
Get a Massage.
The last Massage I received put me in a state of bliss for at least three days. I was so relaxed I felt like marrying the masseuse. If you are uncomfortable to go somewhere to get a massage, see if you can get one from your significant other. You can even practice Abhyanga and give yourself a massage to help you relax.
Explore.
Christmas is truly a magical time of the year. One of the best ways to enjoy this magic is by taking a relaxing drive to admire the lights. Make a thermos of your favorite hot drink, throw on a warm cozy sweater, and explore the Christmas lights in your area.
Take A Day.
If you are incredibly stressed out about the upcoming holidays, do yourself a favor by taking a day to yourself to relax. Get a pedicure, take in a movie, go for a long walk or visit a beautiful place, etc. Whatever it is that brings you happiness, make a day of it.
Hygge.
The Danish are the happiest people on earth, and there is a good reason for that, they Hygge. What is Hygge? It means “coziness” and they practice it daily. Ways to practice Hygge during the holidays is, light candles, cover yourself with cozy blankets, drink warms drinks, eat comfort food, and share intimacy with your loved ones.
Of course, it will help you, even more, to get through the holidays if you practice any or all these things mindfully. Staying mindful during the holidays will let you know when you need to stop and give yourself some self-care.
If you are on Instagram, check out this month’s giveaway at Mindfully Ela. I am giving away a Good Days Start with Gratitude Journal and other fun items. To enter to win these great prizes, all you must do is follow Mindfully Ela on either Facebook or Instagram then sign up here for my weekly mindfulness challenges.
Peace & Love,
Ela
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