Remembering the “Me” in Merry: A Self-care Guide for a Merry Christmas

By Sascha Ealey 

Despite its festive charm, the holiday season often brings a whirlwind of stress and busyness. This Christmas, we want you to prioritize self-care as the greatest gift you can give yourself. Embrace the spirit of the season with a mindful approach to ensure a truly joyful and rejuvenating celebration with 9 holiday self-care tips:

1. Create Mindful Moments

Amidst the holiday chaos, steal moments of mindfulness. Take a pause to savor the aroma of Christmas cookies, appreciate the twinkling lights, and revel in the laughter of loved ones. Mindful moments ground us in the present and infuse joy into the festive hustle.

2. Create Your Winter Wonderland

Transform your space into a cozy haven. Light Christmas scented candles, twinkling lights, and surround yourself with soft blanks and festive decorations. A warm and inviting environment contributes to a sense of comfort and joy.

3. Delight in Festive Self-Care Rituals

Indulge in festive self-care rituals that pamper both body and soul. Treat yourself to a relaxing bubble bath infused with holiday scented oils or enjoy a cozy evening with a cup of hot cocoa (marshmallows if you like) and a good book. Prioritize activities that bring you comfort.

My annual festive ritual with my children is to go to Winter Wonderland in Bryant Park, located in New York City. There is a 17,000-foot square rink, a European inspired holiday market, bumper cars on ice, and a lodge food bar. We have a ball every year over hot chocolate while watching people try and ice skate.

4. Mindful Eating

While enjoying delicious holiday treats, try to practice mindful eating. Savor each bite, relishing the flavors and textures. This mindful approach not only enhances the culinary experience, but also fosters a healthier relationship with food.

5. The Gift of Restful Sleep

Amidst the excitement, don’t compromise on rest. Ensure you get sufficient sleep to recharge your mind and body. Create a calming bedtime routine, dim the lights, and disconnect from screens to promote restful sleep during the holiday season.

6. Connect with Loved Ones

The holidays are a time for connection. Reach out to loved ones, whether through a heartfelt letter/card, a gathering, or a simple phone call. The warmth of meaningful connections contributes to a sense of belonging and joy.

7. Embrace the Outdoors

Take advantage of the crisp winter air. Whether it’s a brisk walk in a snowy park or a quiet moment in your backyard, spending time outdoors invigorates the spirit and adds an extra layer of joy to the festive season.

8. Set Boundaries

Be mindful of your energy levels. Learn to gracefully say “no” when needed and prioritize activities that align with your well-being. Setting boundaries is an act of self-care that allows you to fully enjoy the season.

9. Reflect and Renew

As the year draws to a close, take some time for personal reflection. Acknowledge your achievements, express gratitude for the lessons learned, and set intentions for the upcoming year. This reflective practice brings closure to the year and sets the stage for a fresh start.

So, as you soak up the merriment of the holiday season, make time to try out different activities to find what works best for you and your schedule. Self-care is a gift you can give yourself to care for your own needs and emotions. This Christmas, unwrap the gift of self-care and infuse the season with joy, mindfulness, and rejuvenation.