The holidays are a hectic time, hands down. It’s typically a time where you put everyone else first, and sometimes your needs get pushed to the back burner. Searching for the perfect gift, decorating, planning meals — all of it can lead to holiday burnout and stress.
Self-care sometimes gets a bad rap as being a selfish act, but if you don’t take care of yourself, who will? Self-care isn’t selfish.
Here are a few ways to practice self-care during the holidays. When you’re in the right mindset and feel energized, it’s a lot easier to spread holiday cheer.
Between the flu and the coronavirus, you may still want to remain socially distanced when visiting friends and the best way to do this is to plan a walk. According to research, getting back to nature can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression, and it may even improve your memory. Plus, walking with someone from outside your household can help fight off feelings of isolation.
Exercise can also help reenergize and rejuvenate your mind and body.
The holidays are loaded with delicious treats, no doubt. When you’re feeling low, it’s easy to reach for a sugary treat that will temporarily make you feel better. That’s why it’s important to keep nutritious, wholesome snacks handy when you’re feeling peckish. Almonds, granola bars, dried fruit and other nuts are great options.
Don’t forget to hydrate!
It’s easy to compare your life to others when you’re scrolling through social media all day. But the perfectly manicured pics on social media are just that — perfectly manicured and not real life. Put your phone down and take a moment to be present and grateful for what you have. Pick a time of day when you can unplug and leave your phone in another room, and stick to that schedule.
Don’t forget to treat yourself during the holidays! Buying someone a luxurious bath bomb or body scrub? Snag one for yourself too! While you’re at it, grab a candle and a new book and you’ve got a date with a cozy, soothing bath.
Who says you can’t add plants to your holiday decor? Plants make people happy! It’s science! Choose air-purifying plants such as orchids, chrysanthemums, bromeliads and peace lilies. These plants also help remove bacteria from the air. You could also try adding poinsettia alternatives to your decor (bonus: Many of them can double as Valentine’s Day decor!).
Self-care during the holidays doesn’t have to be a big production, but it is important to stick to a routine in order to avoid burnout. And don’t forget to check in on your circle — some people don’t have the luxury of adding self-care to their routine. Check in to see where you can help out.
Take care and happy holidays!
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