The Gift of Self Care

gift of self care

 

The holiday season tends to be one of the most stressful times of the year for many.  There are lots of activities and gatherings, shopping and cooking.  With so much going on it can be difficult to maintain the self-care routines that keep us grounded.   In the midst of all the holiday hustle and bustle, it’s important to remember to take care of yourself.

Self-care is the key to maintaining health and wellness.   It’s not selfish at all – everyone around you benefits when you first take care of yourself.  Being healthy and relaxed makes it easier for you to accomplish all the things you want to do this season.  The holiday spirit comes a bit easier when you have more in your emotional and energetic tank to give.  Try to incorporate some of these tips for self-care this holiday season:

  1. Relaxation – Take time to relax.  Maybe 5 – 10 minutes each day of belly breathing or yoga.  Take a hot bath or read a book.  With all of the go- go- go of the holidays, it’s important to have some down time to re-center.
  2. Sleep   —  As best as you can, stick to your normal sleep patterns.   When this isn’t possible, be sure to catch up on sleep and rest.
  3. Exercise  —  Don’t put your exercise routine on pause.   Keep moving!
  4. Gratitude — Keep gratitude as a focus.  Instead of getting swept into the commercial aspects of the season, remember all your blessings.
  5. Just Say No — When you begin to feel overwhelmed with too many commitments, feel free to say no.  You don’t have to do everything.
  6. Budget — One of the biggest holiday stressors is spending too much money.  Come up with a holiday budget and stick to it – you’ll thank yourself in January.
  7. Eating – It’s normal to eat more during the holidays, but just take note of how certain foods affect your mood and try to eat nourishing meals.  Maybe watch your sugar intake.
  8. Water – Dehydration causes stress.   Make sure you’re drinking water.  In general, you should try to drink between ½ – 1 ounce of water daily for every pound you weigh. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, that would be 75 to 150 ounces of water a day.

With all of the holiday excitement this time of year, remember to give yourself the gift of self-care.  You’ll experience more joy  and peace during the season if you take time for yourself.

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