8 Self-Care Practices to See You Through the Holidays
The holiday season is often a mix of joy and stress, and due to the current challenges, this year may be more difficult than most. But with a few health and wellness self-care routines in place, you can regain your center and enjoy a peaceful, joy-filled season. Here are eight self-care ideas to try during the holidays. Add your own in the Comments.
1. Create a Bedroom Retreat
Having a soothing, clutter-free space where you can rest and unwind at the end of a long day can do wonders for relieving stress and promoting sleep. Leave the digital screens at the door and read from a real book or write down your thoughts in a journal before turning out the lights.
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2. Bundle Up and Get Outdoors
Even if it’s cold where you live, going outdoors each day can be a real mood booster. And if you live near a nature area, getting out into the woods can be a wonderful way to decompress and regain your center in the middle of a busy holiday season.
3. Soothe the Soul With an Aromatic Bath
Essential oils can completely transform a bath into a blissful sensory experience. Try a few drops of eucalyptus oil to open the lungs, or soothing lavender to relax before bedtime. Add the essential oils to your warm bath when it’s about half full, and the whole tub will be fragrant by the time you’re ready to get in.
4. Try an Unplugged Evening
Simple pastimes like playing chess or games, or working on a puzzle, can provide a nice chance to catch up with family without everyone staring at their own screens. To boost the ambiance even more, turn off the overhead lights and play by the glow of candles and twinkle lights.
5. Warm Up by the Fire
If you have a fireplace or wood stove, now is the time to put it to use. Light a fire, pull a cozy throw over your lap, and settle in with a hot drink and a good book. It doesn’t get much more relaxing than this.
6. Try Meditation
If you’ve found meditation frustrating in the past, try exercising before you meditate. A bit of movement can help settle your body and prepare it to be still and focus. When you’re ready, find a comfortable sitting position, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. And remember, there is no one grading you. Even a minute of meditation can have a positive impact on your day.
7. Practice Some Mindful Tidying
A bit of daily tidying can go a long way toward keeping a home that feels light, spacious and relaxing. If you find yourself resisting, try gently reminding yourself that by doing just a bit each day, you can savor your home even more.
8. Take a Cue From Your Furry Friend
If you have a pet at home, you might want to consider it your resident Zen master. Take a cue from your lounging, care-free cat or happy-go-lucky pooch, and enjoy the present moment to the fullest.