10 Self-Care Tips for the Holidays and Beyond

By: Erin M.

The holidays can be a very stressful time. There are presents to buy, relatives to visit, parties to attend…it can seem like a never-ending swirl of activity. Not to mention that this is also a usually very busy time in the workplace, as yearly budgets are being crunched, reports are being written and promotions being fought over. It can be really easy to burn out and not enjoy what the holidays should be about: appreciating the people in our lives and celebrating ourselves.

It is important that take care of ourselves during the holiday season. Along with all of the cheer, there can also be a lot of stress, anxiety, anticipation and nervousness. Food is a common way that people cope with these negative emotions and with all of the goodies that are around, it can be hard to not binge (especially if you’re dealing with eating disorder recovery) or quiet your feelings with food. 

Need some more ways to take care of yourself this holiday season and beyond? Try these tips:

1. Take a nice long bath. Consider treating yourself to some nice bubble bath, bath salts, or candles to create a nice ambiance for your tub time.
2. Meditate. This is a great way to get in touch with your mind, body and soul. There’s no right or wrong way to do this
3. Spend a Night In. Snuggle down with some blankets, hot chocolate, and Netflix to tune out the hustle and bustle for a few hours.
4. Exercise. It can be a lot harder to exercise during the winter months, as any outdoor physical activities are probably off-limits. Exercise can help you to relieve stress and is a great self-care method. Find a yoga class, go to a new gym, or even just do some basic stretches at home!
5. Clean Out Your Closet. It’s amazing how organizing our lives can help us to feel more centered! You can turn this seemingly monotonous chore into something useful or fun- host a clothing swap party with your friends (allowing you to get some new clothes and give away some of your unwanted pieces), re-gift books, jewelry, or unopened gifts from last year (saving you time and money on holiday shopping) or give your old stuff away to charity, to brighten someone else’s holiday!
6. Go to Bed Early. Chances are, you’re probably sleep deprived. Catch up instead of drinking that 5th cup of coffee and get the rest you need.
7. Give Yourself a Mani/Pedi: There are so many fun holiday themednail polishes, stickers, nail art pens, and more out there! Give them a try and have fun pampering yourself!
8. Journal. Reflect on 2014 and write about your triumphs, your challenges, and your failures, or on anything that might be on your mind. Let it out and get if off your chest. If writing isn’t your thing, record a webcam video or a visual art piece.
9. Talk it Out. Consider calling up an old friend, family member or classmate that you haven’t seen for a while, or want to reconnect with, and enjoy their company.
10. Read a Book. There are so many great books out there just waiting for you to discover them! Taking your mind away from the outside world for a while can be a good way to disconnect and recharge. Go to a library,read some free digital books, or buy something off of your Amazon Wish List.