Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way… to the bathroom to have another emotional breakdown in private because nobody is allowed to know how truly stressful the holidays are. Watching your kids open gifts and seeing your family all together- it’s truly a magical time. However, the moments leading up to these everlasting memories are ROUGH, and you deserve a little “me time”!
Nobody wants to be a stress-case during the holidays, which is why it’s important to take the time to deep breath and relax. Maybe try enjoying a nice warm beverage, take a long bath, or layer on a face mask and watch your favorite Hallmark Christmas movie. Whatever your relaxation jam might be- let it sooth your soul and relax your mind.
Another way to let go of the holiday stress is exercising or yoga. Physical activity produces endorphins- chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers- this improves the ability to sleep, which in turn reduces your stress! Meditation, massage therapy, yoga, even deep breathing can cause your body to produce endorphins.
When feeling a bit on edge, I like to enjoy a bath accompanied with a bath bomb, crank up my favorite Spotify playlist, and diffuse a relaxing blend on essential oils. When I feel the weight of the holidays weighing especially heavy on my shoulders, I’ll pop a conditioning treatment in my hair and an exfoliating mask on my face as well. It takes my mood from hectic to calm in a matter of minutes.
Don’t allow the holidays to suck you dry emotionally! It is supposed to be an enjoyable time for your family AND you. This season, take a moment and remember that “me time” is important, and everyone needs to destress every once in a while. And be sure to remember the reason we celebrate Christmas… it’s proof that God is present here in our messy, stressful world. Take time to care for yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually.