As busy working moms, often taking care of ourselves is the last thing to get any priority in our busy days and weeks. Self care during the holidays can be particularly challenging, as we want to create special moments for our kids and families.
However, we really can’t be our best for others if we don’t first give to ourselves. And it’s all too easy to lose track of what’s really important as the to dos stack up on your list.
Here are 10 quick and easy ways to make sure you are taking care of yourself over what I’m sure will be a busy, emotional, and fun holiday season.
Self Care Tip #1 – Listen to Music
Whenever the energy fades in my house, I put on some music. Holiday music. Dance music. Classical music.
I will start dancing. Then my 19-month-old starts dancing. And a 19-month-old dancing is a very quick mood booster.
Bringing a little music in can really cheer up a space and shift you into a different place.
Self Care Tip #2 – Watch a Movie
There are so many heart-warming holiday movies. Choose a favorite or experiment with something new. We always find that Christmas Vacation helps us get into the holiday spirit.
You can try this one with the kiddos too, and make time to watch special holiday movies, giving everyone a bit of downtime.
Self Care Tip #3 – Move
Whether it’s a few crunches, a short walk, or dancing around your bedroom, move around. You could also simply do a few shoulder roles or stretches. Choose a movement that feels good inside your body.
A great resource to help you make the most of short windows of time is 10 Minute Mama. Momstyler Katy Moses Huggins has recorded several 10 minute workout videos that help you feel absolutely great!
Self Care Tip #4 – Let a tradition go
I always shudder when I see other moms posting pictures of dozens upon dozens of holiday cookies. If my girls are lucky, we will make a single batch this year!
Of course, if making cookies is fun for you, by all means do it. But sometimes we can get caught up in doing something because we’ve always done it and people count on us to do it.
Whether it’s another few dozen cookies, a dish from the holiday meal you are serving, or a preparation element that has you stressed out, let go of the “shoulds” and focus on the activities that bring you the most joy.
Self Care Tip #5 – Shop online
A certain online retailer can still ship your presents before Christmas Eve. Avoid the crowds and long lines and pick up those last minute gifts online.
Self Care Tip #6 – Buy yourself a gift
Is there something you are really hoping to receive this year? Have you dropped innumerable hints but are still not sure if it’s going to be sitting under the tree? Why not buy it for yourself? If it’s something you really want or need, it will be money well spent.
While I was out shopping this year, I bought myself a picture that says “Live Your Own Truth”. This is a mantra I’m bringing into 2016 and a great investment to brighten up my office.
Self Care Tip #7 – Hire child care
It can be tempting to think that because the kids are off school, the whole two weeks has to be one big family vacation. Getting a day or two of child care can give you the buffer you need to be the best mom you can be.
Whether you invest that time working on your business or taking care of you, you’ll be better off for it.
Self Care Tip #8 – Eat nutritious food
I wouldn’t ask you to say no to all temptations over the holidays, but making a few healthy, nutritious choices can really take the edge off that sugar rush. Look at the meals you can easily control, perhaps that’s breakfast, lunch, or the snacks you take with you out and about. Make choices that taste good and make you feel good.
Self Care Tip #9 – Really, truly enjoy an indulgent food
And when it comes to those cookies, cakes, or other items you really want but feel guilty about enjoying, why not make it a beautiful indulgence instead of a sneaky one?
Take a few moments to really savor the experience. Sit down quietly. Put your treat on a beautiful plate or bowl. Get out the silver if that’s your thing. And then savor each and every bite, focusing on really enjoying the experience and setting aside any guilt that might pop up.
I will be enjoying some homemade chocolate chip ice cream with Baileys on Christmas Eve and perhaps again on Christmas Day. Can’t wait!
Self Care Tip #10 – Work, if you want
There are a lot of expectations about not working during the holiday season, especially for moms. Work can be part of your self care, as long as it’s coming from a place of desire rather than should.
If you can, eliminate all must-do work going into the holiday season, but still set aside time to work if you want. Then select some tasks that you always want to do but never seem to have the time for.
>>Most importantly, take care of you
I’ll say it again, we absolutely cannot be our best for others if we do not take care of ourselves. Select a few items off this list (or think up things that would really fill you up) and carve out the space for them over the next few weeks. You’ll be well on your way to finding even more joy and happiness during the holidays.
How will you be taking care of you this holiday season?
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