The holidays are filled with fun, but with all the social events, presents to buy and wrap, and food to prepare, it can be really stressful. And even though your schedule is jam-packed and there’s always more to be done, when you feel overwhelmed, taking time to yourself can help. Think you don’t have time for self-care during the holiday season? Then you probably need it most and these are some quick and easy ways to treat yourself so you’re relaxed and ready for the next thing on your to-do list.
- Create and stick to a calming morning and nighttime routine - What sets you up for a happy day? When you figure out what that is, build it into your mornings and do the same for what creates a restful night for you. It’ll give you something to look forward to and you’ll start and end your day in the right mindset.
- Make time for beauty rituals - It’s easy to skip the things you need to do for yourself when you’re short on time, but taking a few minutes to do your nails or get your eyebrows done may give you the boost you need.
- Use the three-day rule with guests - As much as you may love having friends and family come for a visit, all good things need to come to an end. Especially during the holidays! Make a policy that guests can stay for up to three days and no longer and tell them up front so there are no hurt feelings or surprises.
- Exercise … even if it’s just for five minutes - You probably know that a sweat sesh can decrease stress, improve sleep and boost your mood and the American Psychological Association reports that you can feel those effects after just five minutes of exercise.
- Put your phone on “do not disturb” - Give yourself some time - even if only for an hour - without texts, emails and notifications interrupting you.
- Watch your caffeine intake - It’s easy to lean on coffee to keep you going, but too much caffeine can make you more anxious and could keep you from the sleep you really need.
- Do something nice for someone else every day - Self-care can come in the form of simple acts of kindness for others, like holding the door or buying coffee for a stranger. You may make someone’s day and you’ll feel uplifted, too.
Source: PureWow
Photo: Getty Images