The holiday season is a time filled with family gatherings and celebrations, which are joyful and fun, but can also bring stress, fatigue and a sense of overwhelm. It’s important to take time to practice self-care during the holidays, maintaining your physical, emotional and mental well-being, which will ultimately help you to fully enjoy and embrace this special time of year. We have a few tips that will help you prioritize self-care throughout this upcoming busy season!
SET BOUNDARIES & STICK TO THEM
It’s very easy to overcommit during the holidays – from work parties to family gatherings, it seems that there is always something asking for your attention. Remember that it is okay to say no. Take the pressure off and choose a few meaningful events rather than trying to attend everything. Be honest with your feelings – if it feels like it’s too much, it’s okay to say no.
PRIORITIZE REST AND SLEEP
This time of year gets very busy and sleep is often the first thing to get neglected. If you keep anything consistent over the holidays, let it be sleep. Quality rest is important for your body to rest, recover and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the season. Set aside time to read, listen to music, take a bath and give your body time to unwind. Step away for a few minutes and take time to yourself if you need to. Giving your body time to rest will rejuvenate you and help you keep up with the holiday fun.
STAY ACTIVE | GET OUTSIDE
Holiday gatherings often mean more sitting, while catching up with family you haven’t seen. Try to stay active and move every day – even if it’s just a walk around the block. Haven’t seen your cousins since last holiday season? Catch up over a walk instead of on the couch. Keeping your body moving can help boost your mood and energy levels. Try to get outside if the weather permits. Natural light also helps to improve mood and reduce stress.
EAT AND DRINK WITH BALANCE
It can be tricky when you are out of a routine to stick to healthy eating habits. It’s normal to indulge in holiday treats, but try to keep a healthy balance. Consider adding cleaner options to the mix and listening to your body’s signals. Alcohol is usually present at festive gatherings, but keep it in moderation to stay grounded. Stay hydrated with water in between cocktails!
Self-care during the holidays is crucial to your physical and mental well-being. Set your boundaries for you and your family early and stick to them. Focus on what brings you joy and navigate the holiday season with balance and peace. The best gift you can give to yourself and others is a healthy, happy and present you.
HAPPENING LIST WINNERS & RESOURCES
Prologue Therapy & Relationship Counseling
2024 Happening List Winner: Mental and Behavioral Health
115 Main St, Flemington, NJ
https://prologuetherapynj.com/
If any of this sounds like you, it may be time to let the compassionate, talented therapists at Prologue Therapy guide you. They can help you find and utilize your support systems, hold your hand through the grief, and teach you to communicate effectively with your loved ones. Their goal is to make sure that you are holding the pen for your own life story, and they stand out from other therapy groups with their unique, context-based perspective on healing. Where other types of therapy may feel like they’re asking “what’s wrong with you,” their style asks “what has happened to you?” This helps their clients acknowledge their pain without shame.
Prologue has immediate availability during the day, in the evenings, and on weekends. They offer in-person appointments in Flemington as well as virtual appointments to clients all throughout New Jersey. They’re ready to meet you exactly where you are— give them a call at (908) 271-8547 or send them an email at hello@prologuetherapy.com today.
Nourished by Nadia
2024 Happening List Winner: Nutrition Services
203 Main St Suite 221, Flemington, NJ
https://nourishedbynadia.com/
Ascension Wellness
2024 Happening List Winner: Day Spa
665 US-22 Suite 214, Whitehouse Station, NJ
https://www.ascensionwellnessnj.com/