The holiday season is coming up! This time of year can be fulfilling and restful but it can also create some added stress. Changes in routine, family obligations, and the chaos of the pandemic can result in anxiety for many of us. This holiday season, prioritize self-care and focus on feeling your best. Here are a few ideas for how to stay calm this holiday season:
- Keep It Cozy: Shorter days and colder weather can affect our mood during the holidays. Creating a warm, calming environment is especially important this year as we’re staying at home more. Making your own cozy space is so beneficial that some cultures have their own word for it: the Danish use “hygge” to describe their cozy way of life. Try appealing to your senses by lighting candles, getting comfy blankets, decorating for your favorite holiday, and wearing comfy clothes on your days off! Fun family activities like baking and board games are ways to stay cozy at home while interacting with your loved ones.
- Let Yourself Relax: Our culture is obsessed with productivity which can lead to feeling like you have to “do something” even during the holidays. Give yourself permission to take a break! Have a movie marathon with your family, go for a walk, take a nap, or even just pause for a few seconds to breathe. Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. This is a great season to get some downtime in especially without big holiday gatherings this year. Stay present and enjoy your time off!
- Cut Down Screen Time: It can be easy to spend hours on your phone or computer when there’s a break from school or work. There’s nothing wrong with a little social media time, but too much screen time can leave you feeling anxious, bored, and tired. The holidays are a great time to focus on other hobbies like reading, journaling, and art! Check out this website for 50 easy crafts for the whole family.
- Get Outside: Spending time outdoors is so important for our physical and mental health! It’s getting colder out, but there’s an old phrase that there’s no bad weather, only bad clothes. Bundle up and go for a quick hike, walk, bike ride, or picnic with hot cocoa. Staying in is nice, but it’s important to explore the world in a safe and socially distanced way.
- Prioritize Your Mental Health: When routines change, it can be easy to forget about taking care of ourselves. Keep doing the things that make you feel good-- physical movement, rest, drinking water, and mindfulness are important year-round. Remember to connect with others- try staying close with friends through virtual holiday parties!
Happy holidays! Stay healthy, Chaps!
-Lizz, Katie, Alex, and Annie