Merry, Bright and Mentally Right: A Holiday Self-Care Guide
Oh, it’s the most wonderful time of the year- but not for everyone. The holidays are beautiful, stressful and even triggering for many people. Tis’ the season to be with family and loved ones, but what if your family members aren’t positive relationships in your life? This can bring feelings of loneliness, depression, guilt, shame and trauma. From endless shopping lists to balancing social obligations, it's easy to get caught up in the rush and forget to take care of ourselves. This year, let's make self-care a priority. Here are some tips to help you cope with the holidays with more ease, joy, and peace of mind.
1. Set Boundaries (and Stick to Them): The holiday season is a time filled with gatherings and social events. While connection can be a comforting and beautiful part of this time, it’s equally important to know when to say “no.” Boundaries are crucial for honoring your mental and emotional wellness. If you feel overwhelmed, it is perfectly acceptable to kindly decline invitations or set limits on how long you’ll stay at an event. It is not selfish to protect your energy. Remember this when feeling obliged by those who are deserving of our boundaries.
2. Get Your Zzzzz’s: Don’t stay up all night waiting for Santa! It’s important to prioritize your sleep, which is so often what we sacrifice first to stay up and catch up with family or friends we see infrequently. Lack of rest is a major culprit of stress. So politely excuse yourself from company when you’re ready and wind down with a relaxing routine- read a book, light a candle, take a warm bath, etc.
3. Stay Active: Try your best to maintain a healthy exercise routine. Moving at least 30 minutes a day is what the good doctor always recommends. If you can squeeze in a walk around the block or loop your loved ones into a quick grounding yoga session, it can reenergize you and keep stress at bay.
4. Limit Alcohol and Sugar Intake: It’s so easy to indulge in your favorite holiday recipes. Do you best to be mindful on how alcohol and sugar can affect your mood/energy levels. Nourish your body and focus on balance to keep your mind mentally right, especially if you find yourself in company where your boundaries are being tested.
5. Pockets of Quiet: The holidays can be noisy- literally and emotionally. Family gatherings, parties, busy stores, lots of traffic/travel… it’s so important to find a little pocket of quiet for yourself. Whether it’s a mindful morning coffee, running an errand alone or even stepping away from the group- let these pockets be a peaceful moment of recharge. If this seems impossible, because of the noise, try out some noise canceling headphone or leaving the physical space temporarily.
6. Create New Traditions: If old traditions feel burdensome or painful, consider scrapping them and create new ones that resonate with you. This can be as simple as choosing a new recipe, volunteering at a local charity or planning a festive outing with people who fuel you. New traditions can help you renew joy and kick the Grinch to the curb. Honor your present feelings for the holidays and build new, positive associations with this time of the year.
Self-care through the holidays isn’t about creating a Hallmark movie moment. It’s about taking intentional steps to nurture yourself physically, emotionally and mentally. To be merry, bright and mentally right stick to your boundaries, prioritize your sleep, keep active, nourish your body, stay mindful and create traditions that make you feel good! Remember, the holidays don’t have to be a stressful reminder of obligation/triggers. When you care for yourself first, you’re in a better position to believe in the magic!
Get Inspired and Jolly,
Lauren
