12 Days of Christmas Self-Care Tips
If you're hosting a bunch of people at your home, or even if your not and find yourself overwhelmed with social situations, or feel so stressful and you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed out during Christmas, you are not alone.
While the holiday season can be the best time of the year for most of us, for so many reasons, the stress can go sky-high. While creating a very merry Christmas can be financially and socially challenging, self-care is the key to keep our minds intact.
Thanks to the extra free time of the holidays, it’s the best chance to practice self-care and give yourself a mental reboot before the new year arrives. Even if you don’t have a lot of free time remember its essential to crave some out for yourself.
12 days of self-care ideas mix and match to suit your needs, and remember to slow down and enjoy.
#1: GO FOR A WALK ALONE
Fresh air is magic pills for elevating energy level and a better mood. Go out for a jog or a nice walk and enjoy mother nature and just cruse no pressure at all. You will get cool off or calm down by simply taking a walk. The fresh air will do you good, and just getting moving and changing locations can help give you a different perspective or clear your mind.
#2: DO SOME JOURNALING
journaling can help you recognize and validate your thoughts and feelings and take control of them. You might have a million things going through your mind, and just the act of writing them down can help you prioritize and organize them.
#3: HAVE A GAME NIGHT OR DO SOMETHING FUN
Having a game night will give your the opportunity to learn something new about your family and friends. Don't forget to enjoy what the season has to offer. Go ice skating, have a festive drink at your favorite bar, take in all the holiday displays while shopping… whatever you like to do, make time for it.
#4: TREAT YOUR SELF
While your out shopping for all the family and friends don’t forget to get your self something as well. It don’t have to be expensive. A selfcare treat is always a great way to relax and unwind any day or night.
#5: A SOOTHING SPA BATH OR OTHER TREAT
In the same realm of ‘treat yo self’, treat yourself by pampering yourself. Take time out for YOU and get yourself to the hairdresser for a fresh colour and cut, followed by a facial, pedicure and manicure, or a spa bath or a special gift like https://www.180degreebox.store/ to just relax and enjoy by yourself.
If you don’t have a lot of money, that’s totally fine…go run yourself a warm bath, light some candles and relax while soaking in some nice oils, salts or bubble bath.
#6: GIVING BACK WITH LOVE
Giving back can make you feel so much better and give you some purpose. Focusing on others can help you gain a new perspective, and of course, you're providing some much-needed aid to someone and that makes all the difference. Donate food, clothes, or holiday gifts; volunteer your time; or help a family member or friend in need.
#7: CATCH UP WITH FRIENDS
Just chilling at home or If you're back home for the holidays, it's the perfect time to see old friends who are home as well. Now, sometimes this might cause some social anxiety (especially if you're in the habit of comparing yourself to others), but certain friends can also provide a level of comfort. You can also choose to do virtual holiday to catch and bring a feeling of joy.
#8: MEDITATE
Meditation is a great way to clear your mind and help you relax. Meditation is the most effective way to train our “mental muscles” to do things we set our mind to. Professionals says at least 5 minutes of meditation helps to improve the brain’s ability to process information. This will prepare and calm you to tackle the holidays.
#9: A BEDTIME RITUAL
Getting enough and high-quality sleep is one of the most needed yet often neglected self-care activities. Avoid eat 3 hours before sleep. An hour before going to bed, put away your phone and other electronics. Read a book on your list and calm your mind down from the holiday chaos.
These nighttime routines will help you to fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep throughout the night. And you’ll be more energetic and refreshed the next day!
#10: REMEMBER TO HYDRATE
Self-care doesn’t always involve manicure. A self-care activity can be as simple as drinking enough water.
Not having enough water can cause headaches, dry skin, fatigue, and dizziness. These symptoms can make you feel exhausted during the busy holiday season. Bring along a water bottle to sip as you go about your day.
#11: TAKE A NAP
Who doesn’t love a good nap? With less than 30 minutes, you will have your energy recharged for the rest of the day. It can also be a magical mood-booster which doesn’t cost you anything. So allow yourself to pause and take a nap when you experience low-energy in the day. You will be ready to enjoy the festivities.
#12: SET BOUNDRIES
Remember that celebrating Christmas doesn’t require you to say “yes” to every invitation, respond to every Christmas card with a long, personal message or display the most spectacular lights or table scape for your neighbors and guests. Identify the things you most value about your family Christmas experience and do those things—give yourself permission to gently say “no” to everything else.
When all else fails remember to take a moment and BREATHE
Christmas is a time of joy, but it can be challenging for people who are experiencing relationship struggles, grief or financial difficulties. If you are struggling to connect with the positivity of the season, check in with a close friend, clergy member, or professional counselor for guidance. Allow yourself the time and space to experience the wide range of emotions that comes with such an expectation-laden time of year, and remember that part of walking a positive path is seeking the right supports during tough times.
Remember to Enjoy the Journey
love Arlene
180 degree Box