How you take time to rest during the busy holiday season

​The holidays are supposed to be a time of togetherness and celebration, so why does it always seem to be a busy and stressful season instead?

We feel rushed to prepare for Christmas, and when it’s all over, it seems like we didn’t have any time to pause and reflect on what the holidays are really about. Try incorporating these simple and easy self-care practices into your holiday preparations to help you not only keep stress at bay but also to help you appreciate the wonder and beauty of this Christmas season.

Make time to rest

Taking just 15 minutes a day to pause can go a long way with minimizing the amount of stress you are experiencing. Simply sitting quietly without any distractions to reflect on your day and the purpose behind what you are doing that day will leave you refreshed, at peace, and much less stressed.

Rest is an important part of life, especially during the holidays, so treat times of rest as a must and not a nice-to-have.

Simplify and slow down

Again, because the holidays are so busy with family gatherings, holiday parties, and Christmas preparations, it’s easy to feel rushed and pressed for time. Spending the whole day in a state of stress is not the ideal way to savor the wonder of the Christmas season.

So instead of trying to cram all of the things into your already-packed schedule, try a different approach. Slow down your day and just do what you absolutely need to. Don’t be afraid to turn down an invitation to another holiday party if it’s going to mean overscheduling yourself. Try simplifying your approach to Christmas so that you can slow down and really appreciate what the season is offering.

Practice gratitude

Simply identifying three to five things you are grateful for each day can help remind you that, despite the busyness of the holiday season, there are positive and wonderful things happening in your life. Keep a notebook by your bedside and jot down the items for your gratitude list, either when you wake up in the morning or at the end of your day.
 

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