It’s holiday season and there’s much to look forward to: a break from your regular routine, time to spend with loved ones, and happy celebrations, to name a few. But the holiday season can also be a time of high stress- sometimes for those very same reasons- and stress is never a good thing.
It’s important all year round to regularly take a step back from your busy life and make time for yourself, and especially so during the hectic holiday season. It’s easy to get caught up in work and family obligations and very often the last item on your list of things to do is to take care of yourself. The way to ensure that this doesn’t happen is to actually make it an item on your list! Even if all you can set aside each day is just ten minutes, make them count. Giving yourself a short break from the chaos will give you a chance to regroup, recharge your batteries, and make yourself your priority for a little while.
Here are some things you can do to take care of yourself when you only have a short time:
- Take a coffee break. If you can manage it, go out and treat yourself to some time by yourself or with a friend over a relaxing cup of coffee. If you can’t get out, drink your coffee at home- but make sure you sit and don’t get busy with work or household responsibilities until you’re done!
- Take a walk. One of my favorites! You actually physically get away, and the exercise will get those feel-good hormones flowing. You’ll feel better and feel more capable of returning to the chaos.
- Take a bath. Give yourself a mini spa treatment with bath oils and luxurious lotions.
- Read a book. Reading is relaxing and it will give you a short escape from your busy reality.
- Meditate. Either you’re doing it already, so you know how beneficial it is, or you’re not and you might be skeptical. Well- get over it! Try it and you’ll see how calming and empowering it is.
- Have a glass of wine. No explanation needed! But of course- make sure to drink responsibly.
- Take a short nap. Sometimes a power nap is just the thing to get you relaxed and give you a boost so you can continue on with everything else. Make sure not to sleep too long or you’ll wake up feeling groggy.
- Have a treat. Yes- give yourself that cupcake or bowl of ice cream. And no guilt- plan for it, and make sure you savor every bite!
- Listen to music. Music is very soothing, so just relax by yourself and listen to the music that you like.