Give Yourself A Gift This Season: 5 Tips For Self-Care During the Holidays

At this time of year, chances are, you’re doing things for everyone but yourself – tracking down those special gloves for your aunt… snapping the family picture so you have a prayer of getting cards out before New Year’s… online shopping for all the kids in your life. You’re cooking…baking… stuffing… wrapping…while, at the same time, managing a job, caring for family members, and trying to make it to all the holiday gatherings with a smile on your face. Argh!

Tis the season of decking the halls, sugar plum fairies, and a level of overdrive that can leave you feeling like the Grinch’s tiny “rein-dog” Max – teetering at the top of that mountain with all of Whoville’s presents on his back.

I realize that thinking about yourself is probably the farthest thing from your mind right now, but – taking a page from the book of Mr. Scrooge – imagine this post as a kind of visit from the ghost of ‘burn-out-to-come’. It’s pointing to a picture of a post-holiday you that’s exhausted – with a reminder that taking time for yourself now can change that future vision for the better.

Here are five tips for self-care to help navigate the ups and downs of this holiday season:

1. Treat Yourself To Baths. I can already feel the pushback on this one, but consider it! Try substituting baths for showers when possible. A bath can take the same amount of time as a shower, but it gives you a chance to let down and really relax – even if just for five minutes.

2. Keep Up Daily Rituals. This may feel like a tall order right now, but the more you can stick to your everyday routine the better. Getting in stretching or exercise of some kind; closing your eyes to meditate, even if for just two minutes (in the bathtub!); making the bed; as well as getting into bed at a good time – these activities can help you maintain a feeling of order and inner calm.

3. Say ‘No’ When Needed. Evaluate obligations and set realistic boundaries for yourself and your family. If you know that making it to two parties in one night or two turkey dinners in the same day would have you in the fetal position by day’s end – it’s important to just say “no”.

4. Let Go of Expectations. While it’s supposed to be a “magical” time, the holidays tend to magnify everything in your life – even the things that aren’t going so smoothly. Make it a point to kick any thoughts of perfection to the curb and ask for help when you need it. It’s important to do what feels right for you.

5. Focus on the Reason for the Season. If your goal is to have more connection and time with family and friends, or to be of more service, consider staying home instead of making the rounds, or volunteering at a shelter with your family. Creating your own new traditions can make the season less hectic and give it more meaning.
6. However you’re spending these holidays, dear reader, take good care of you, and I send you my very best wishes!