Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, or Kwanzaa, or some combination of these or other holidays, or whether you avoid celebrations altogether, the holiday season can be a time that bounces rapidly between joy and stress. I find that during the holiday season, I experience a full range of emotions on an almost daily basis, and navigating these emotions, and the circumstances that are contributing to them, can feel like a full time job. For many, the holidays include spending time with loved ones, giving and receiving gifts, enjoying rich and delicious meals, and taking time off of work. At the same time, the holidays can be a stark reminder of people we have lost over the years or the ways we may feel our life is dull or lacking. It is quite common for the holiday season to be a time when old wounds resurface, loneliness becomes unbearable, or stress feels insurmountable. All this being said, perhaps the holidays are one of the most important times of the year to spend a little extra time taking care of ourselves. The holiday season is often a time focused on giving and taking care of others, but how often do you stop and give yourself love, compassion, and care?

Self-care has become a popular social media buzzword with Instagram and Twitter posts flaunting #selfcaresunday (and don’t get me wrong, I love a whole day dedicated to self-care, but this is not always available for many of us who lead busy lives). Although self-care can include the things that social media often promotes, such as spa days, ice cream, and face masks, it is more broadly the act of nourishing our bodies, minds, and souls. Each person’s self-care needs are different, but what we do have in common is the need for self-care to be a daily act and a long-term commitment. And during the holidays, which can be one of the more stressful times of the year, it may be necessary to make even more time to nourish ourselves. 

In order to support your self-care journey, I’ve come up with 3 simple ideas for incorporating self-care into your daily routine during the holidays: 

1. Prioritize sleep. Between traveling, endless to-do lists, and holiday parties, sleep can be a difficult thing to come by during the holiday season. However, sleep is an extremely important part of maintaining self-care. I’m not telling you to go to bed early or spend a full day napping, but however you get your sleep, make sure it’s actually happening - and happening on a daily basis. Regular, consistent sleep helps your body to rest and digest and can help support your brain and body in managing stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. 

2. Eat what you want, and listen to your body. The holidays can be a time when we enjoy delicious, sugary treats. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with eating whatever you want. There’s no need to “exercise off” your calories, or skip dinner so you can justify that extra cocktail. Rather, listen to your body. As you’re eating or drinking, become mindful and notice…Is this satisfying me right now? Trust that your body will lead you in the right direction. 

3. Get some fresh air and sunlight. During these cold, dark days of winter (here in the Northeast), with the sun often rising after we’ve left for work and setting before we get home, it can be hard to find time to be outside. If you’re feeling cooped up inside, try to find 5 minutes to go outside and let your skin absorb the air and the sun, even if it’s just being mindful of the way the air feels on your skin as you walk to and from your car. I find this to be especially helpful when I’m visiting friends and family. Sometimes being around people can be overwhelming, so taking a quick break outside to reset in the fresh air might be just the boost you need.

If you have a strategy for incorporating self-care into your routine during the holiday season, drop it in the comments below!