We’re in the thick of the holiday season, and there is so much excitement in the air. While the holidays are mainly meant to be a time to reunite with your loved ones and spend some quality time with them, it can also bring about a lot of stress, anxiety, overindulgence, and even disappointment.
Since the commercialism related to the holiday season has increased over the years, people always find themselves overwhelmed while managing several different things, including buying gifts, having to meet people you don’t really want to, cooking, attempting make everything perfect, and so on.
While it’s great to have your fair share of fun during the holidays, it’s also important to remember to keep your sanity intact. In the middle of all you do this holiday season to put smiles on others’ faces, it’s essential to take care of yourself as well, so as to stay physically and emotionally healthy.
Here are some self-care tips for the holidays:
- Control Your Food and Alcohol Intake
The inevitable re-unions that come with holidays are sometimes stressful; nothing ruins a mood faster than rehashing unpleasant stories or having to dodge unwanted questions. Don’t quote us, but we’re pretty sure it’s one of the leading causes of overindulgence in food and alcohol. While eating and drinking merrily is just fine, make sure you’re not doing it just to avoid uncomfortable situations. Try to get some exercise in between as well, and watch how much you’re drinking, so that your mind can stay clear-headed.
- Get Presents for Yourself
We’re always so worried about what to get others during the holidays, that we forget to get something for ourselves. A great way to practice self-care is to do the things that make you happy, and getting a present for yourself is the first step to that.
Perhaps there’s a dress or a watch you’ve been eyeing for a while. Or maybe there’s a book you’ve been meaning to read. Get yourself what your heart desires, because you deserve it.
- Practice Gratitude
Look around you. Do you see yourself surrounded by people who love you? If yes, then be thankful for that. Practicing gratitude reminds you of all the beautiful things in your life. Make a list of what’s making you happy in the moment, and show gratitude for it.
- Get Enough Sleep
Holidays mean constant get-togethers and parties. This results in our sleep cycle getting completely disrupted; don’t let that happen. No matter how many Christmas parties you’re going to, give your body a good eight hours of sleep. Too little sleep will affect your physical health, and leave you cranky and lethargic.
- Keep Work Away
Most of us work throughout the year without taking any breaks. The holiday season is a chance for us to get our minds off work, and stay away from our phones, laptops, emails, work documents, etc. Spend more time with the people who have come to visit you, don’t keep checking your Facebook and Instagram; instead, be present and pay attention to the holiday cheer surrounding you.