In our Holiday Survival Checklist, we cover twelve tips to stay balanced and healthy while juggling holiday demands (and family 😅)
Put Yourself on the List
The adage, “Put your oxygen mask on first” applies for holiday commitments, too. Unless you make sure to take time for yourself, you won’t be able to be fully present for anyone else. You deserve care! Schedule time for yourself, whether it’s 30 minutes to read, take a walk, or relax with a favorite activity.
Set Healthy Boundaries
It’s okay to say “no” to overwhelming events or obligations. Protect your energy by prioritizing what matters most to you.
“I say no to things I don’t like. I say no to things that don’t contribute to my growth. I say no to things that rob me of valuable time. I spend time around healthy people. I reduce my interactions with people who drain my energy. I protect my energy against people who threaten my sanity. I practice positive self-talk. I allow myself to feel and not judge my feelings. I forgive myself when I make a mistake. I actively cultivate the best version of myself.” – Nedra Glover Tawwab, Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself
Simplify When You Can
Allow yourself to take shortcuts—simpler decorations or a smaller gift list are all okay! Less stress equals more joy.
Nourish Your Body
Don’t skip meals to “save calories” for a big dinner. Eat balanced meals throughout the day to keep your energy steady and incorporate protein. Staying hydrated also helps you to avoid fatigue and curb unnecessary cravings.
Move for Energy, Not Perfection
Focus on movement that feels good, whether it’s yoga, a quick walk, or dancing to holiday tunes. You don’t need to commit to a full workout every day. Even 10-15 minutes can help you reset and recharge.
Prioritize Rest
Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night and take short breaks during busy days to avoid burnout. A quick power nap or 5 minutes of metered breathing and meditation can work wonders.
Practice Mindful Giving
Shift your focus to meaningful, heartfelt gifts rather than extravagant spending. Remember, your time and presence are the most valuable gifts of all!
Check in with Your Emotions
Acknowledge your feelings. If stress or sadness creeps in, talk to someone you trust or practice journaling. Be kind to yourself—it’s okay not to feel “merry” all the time.
“Naming emotions doesn’t give the emotions power, it gives us power – the power to move through them, to make meaning, to make new choices, and to learn about ourselves and the world.” – Brené Brown
Plan for Downtime
Block off quiet moments in your calendar for recovery, reflection, or connection with loved ones. Treat these like any other important commitment or meeting.
If you enjoy journaling as part of reflection time, try writing a few sentences around these prompts:
- What does gratitude mean to you? How does it feel to be grateful?
- What anxious thoughts am I holding onto right now? What ways have I helped myself through anxiety before, and how can I redirect that energy to the present moment?
- Protecting my energy and time is important. What are three ways that I can make space for myself this holiday season?
Stay Connected
Lean on your support system. Whether it’s family, friends, or a holiday group chat, don’t be afraid to ask for help or share how you’re feeling.
Focus on Joyful Moments
Make time for the little things that make you happy, like watching your favorite holiday movie or taking a walk in the snow.
Embrace Imperfection
The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Let go of unrealistic expectations and enjoy the season for what it is.
Acceptance affirmation, courtesy of AffirmationPod by Josie Ong: “Sometimes, I wish things could be different. I know I can face anything I am dreading with courage and tenacity. I accept what is. I accept what’s here. I stand in my power to handle it. I remember in life there are wins and there are losses. I rise in this moment with gratitude for what I have with a focus on positivity and an acceptance of what is. I anchor myself in who I am. I have worked hard to be here. I am finding more strength in accepting what is.”
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