With Halloween as the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season, it's easy to get swept up in all the excitement and busy schedules that come with the season. Yet, to enjoy this time to the fullest, we need to take care of ourselves and ensure we're maintaining a balance. Drinking your water, going for walks, taking your vitamins, and getting enough sleep. The holidays are exciting but they can be exhausting and can add unwanted stress. Decide now that this year will be a little different. It is okay to indulge but pick your places-and remember the consequences of that choice. For instances, it is okay to have the piece of fudge, just not three! Or, how about not having your sugary pumpkin drink at every chance. Another stress causer is over spending and or over committing. It is easy to get caught up in the moment but by simply reminding yourself of the results of the action can keep you on track.
It is going to happen! Your brain is going to try to convince you to NOT try anything different. It will be there telling you things like “we can start January 1st eating better” or things like “go ahead and buy it, the bill won’t come in til February”. I can recall my brain telling me to eat the pecan pie for breakfast since Thanksgiving only comes once a year….knowing that I can make one anytime. It is crazy how we let our own brain talk us out of our own original plan. Let this year be different. Decide ahead of time what you want to achieve. It may be stay on budget, keep up your exercise routine, drink your water, or maybe limiting yourself to two desserts or treats a week during November and December. Just decide before hand and tell your brain to calm down and get on board. Remember, our primal brain is like a toddler. Speak to it with love and compassion but firm!
Here are some practical ways to prioritize self-care from Halloween to New Year’s.
Set Intentions for the Season-HAVE A PLAN!
Before the season takes off, pause and consider what you truly want out of it. Is it more quality time with family, relaxing moments for yourself, or simply embracing joy and gratitude? Knowing your intentions can guide you toward what matters most and help you filter out unnecessary stressors. Reminding ourselves that the holidays is much more that food and gifts! Again, go into the season with a plan.
Pace Yourself with Indulgences
Halloween often brings leftover treats that get us off track and can cause us to develop sugar cravings. These cravings can create a perfect storm of indulgences throughout the holiday. You know, when we start telling ourselves we will start over next year! Try savoring your favorites, but keep it in moderation. Pick your places where to enjoy the goodies. HAVE A PLAN.
Move Your Body
Staying active during the holidays is a fantastic way to relieve stress and stay energized. Even short walks, stretching, or low-impact workouts can keep your body feeling good and improve your mood. Try keeping your routine in check. If you work out, keep it up. You will feel so much better in January. Don’t let your brain tell you that you will start Jan 1. Don’t let your brain tell you that you don’t have time. We all can find 15 minutes in a day to take a quick walk. That is all it takes to feel better. Have a plan!
Set Boundaries and Say No When Needed
Holiday gatherings and activities can sometimes become overwhelming. Remember, it’s okay to say no to invitations or events that don’t align with your priorities or energy levels. Protecting your time and energy is an important part of self-care, allowing you to enjoy the season more fully. Don’t spread yourself too thin and get worn down. Take time in deciding what works for you.
Schedule Down Time
Block off time in your calendar specifically for relaxing activities that bring you joy—reading, facial, watching a favorite movie, or taking a hot bath. Having planned downtime helps you recharge so that you can approach each new holiday experience with a fresh perspective.
Reflect and Reframe When Needed
With busy schedules and higher expectations, it’s easy to get frustrated. If things don’t go as planned, take a moment to reflect. Try reframing setbacks with a positive outlook—whether it’s a chance to practice flexibility, find humor in chaos, or simply give yourself grace for doing your best. Again, when things don’t go as plan, breathe and embrace...and keep calm. I remember one time we were preparing for a Christmas party and we dropped a bottle of salad dressing on the floor. After a 1 minute meltdown, I made a joke and we all laughed and moved on.
In closing, the holiday self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential. With a little intention, you can enjoy this season more fully, connect with loved ones, and celebrate in a way that brings you peace and joy. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t about missing out on the fun but about ensuring you have the energy to embrace it all.
Create a plan now to take care of yourself to fully enjoy the season!
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