Christmas is 4 days away, but with all the shopping and preparation, it can feel like its 4 minutes away. Maybe you are preparing to host family, traveling, or planning several holiday events. Whatever it may be, it's important to take care of yourself too.
You always hear about "self care", and you probably think about skincare, or bubble baths, or painting your nails. Self care can be much more than pampering - because you have to take care of yourself mentally too. Here are some of my favorite ways to relax and de-stress during the holidays.
1) Read a good book. Yeah, yeah, you always hear that. But really! Get into something comfortable (personally, I have Christmas cat pajamas), make your favorite drink of choice, and grab your book. Books are a great escape because you are immersing yourself into a story other than your life. It's a great way to take a step back and relax.
2) Christmas movies! I mean, duh. Christmas movies are nostalgic, warm, and joyful. Are you really ever on edge while enjoying Elf? Are you stressed watching The Santa Clause? Christmas movies are a comforting way to relax your mind and enjoy the holiday without the shopping and running from here to there and everywhere. And hey, don't forget the pajamas!
3) Spending quality time. Sure, you're probably going to be around family for the holiday, but its also good to spend time together now. Have a night with comfy clothes, good snacks, and great conversation. Maybe you grab a friend and have a nice dinner out, with no pressure of gift-giving. Spending time with family and friends can be a great way to fill your heart and enjoy the best part of the season. Don't forget to include your furry friends! It can be cozy and comforting to spend an evening on the couch cuddled up with your cuddly companions. Quite honestly, I don't spend any evenings where I don't have a cat approximately two inches from my face (not entirely by choice). It's nice to have a friend that's not expecting conversation!
4) Treat yourself. Remember when I mentioned pampering for self care? Well, you can't just leave that out. Does shopping have you stressed? Go get a massage. Feeling overwhelmed with party planning? Grab your favorite "fun" drink and draw a bubble bath. However you like to make yourself feel good and relaxed, now is the time to do it. Don't tell yourself you don't have time, because you do. You should always have time for yourself.
Christmas can be beautiful and exciting, but sometimes its hard to get there. Take care of yourself these next few days, and remember to breathe. You will have a great holiday party, or an easy get-together. Christmas is meant to be joyous, not stressful. My parting advice would be: use curbside pickup for every store that you can (seriously), buy all of the snacks you like, and drink some hot chocolate.