While the holidays might be “the most wonderful time of the year,” they also tend to get somewhat stressful. For professional women, mothers and female entrepreneurs or business owners, it feels like that stress seems to double. The best way to combat that stress – especially during this busy season – is self care!
It’s easy to push it aside to tackle the neverending to-do list, but it’s so important to keep on track with self care. You are no good to your family, friends, clients or even yourself if you don’t focus at least a little on caring for yourself this holiday season.
Remember self care is anything where you focus on yourself! You don’t even have to do anything big, and there are plenty of fun ways to tie in to the holidays. Here are three of my favorite self care options and routines during the holidays.
1. Schedule “Spa” Time
There is nothing more relaxing than spa routines and treatments. Plus, there are so many options that you can do something that fits within your budget and time constraints.
For those on a tight budget (let’s face it, holiday gifts are not cheap), you can have an at-home spa day by turning your bathroom into a luxury spa. Think bubble bath, candles and a fun pedicure.
If you are tight on time, consider doing your own facial at home or opting for a spa hour versus a spa day at your favorite local spa.
Most importantly, put it on your calendar! This will help you not forget as well as keep you accountable for going through with it.
2. Get Festive
One of the best things about the holidays is you can tie it into virtually anything! This is true of self care, too.
For baths or spa time at home, consider using holiday scents in your routine such as lotions, bubble bath and candles.
If self care to you means enjoying a cup of tea or coffee in the morning while the house is quiet, choose a holiday flavor, like peppermint or gingerbread.
Holiday music is seriously also great to have on in the background during almost any self care time you choose. There are soft instrumental festive songs for yoga time or upbeat ones if dance parties are your way to recharge.
3. Turn Holiday Tasks Into You Time
There are plenty of holiday tasks on that to-do list mentioned early that can go from stressful to fun.
I used to hate wrapping gifts – it felt like such a chore. Then, I decided to start doing it after everyone, or at least the kids, were asleep, while watching some of my favorite holiday movies and drinking wine. Now, I look forward to this time every year – and totally consider it my own holiday self care.
Another good option is shopping. If you normally love shopping but dread it due to the crowds, find a way to make it fun during this time of year. Choose and set a time when you aren’t busy or rushed. Bring a friend – and maybe even grab your favorite cocktails or cup of coffee beforehand.
These simple flips on mundane holiday tasks can easily turn them from stress to self care!
