How to Practice Selfcare During the Holidays

Ah, the holiday season. It’s a time filled with family, friends, food and fun. But what if you don’t have visions of sugar plums dancing in your head? The holidays can be a time of stress. It can be challenging and even overwhelming to stay mindful and grounded when you’re facing financial, emotional and physical pressures. So, what’s the antidote to a stressful time of year? Selfcare.

The Real Meaning of Selfcare

"Selfcare" is a buzzword that's exploded in the wellness industry in recent years. And while the occasional face mask, bubble bath or massage are totally acceptable, there are many other ways to practice self-care on a budget. It’s also important to be mindful that the definition of selfcare is often misrepresented. Selfcare means different things to different people. Sometimes it means unplugging and spending a weekend away in a log cabin in Vermont – playing board games or reading books. Other times it means binge-watching Christmas movies and ordering Pad Thai!

The important thing to remember is that no two days are the same, and no two self-care methods are the same either. Before you Google "best self-care tips," take a moment to reflect on what it is you truly need, then do what's right for you and enjoy the little moments along the way – like the sun shining even on a chilly day.

Learn to Prioritize Your Wellbeing

It can be challenging to prioritize selfcare, especially during a time of year that’s all about giving and putting other people first. But selfcare isn't selfish. Taking the time to improve your mental, physical or emotional wellbeing will have you feeling more refreshed so that you can whole-heartedly bring your best self to everything you do – especially as the Yankee Swaps, work parties and family gatherings add up.

Consider a Mini Digital Detox

To truly practice selfcare, throw comparisons out the window. Technology is an integral part of our everyday lives and we live in a time where we're more connected than ever. We're constantly "on." And sometimes we need to switch “off” that digital button and step away from the information overload and analysis paralysis, including periodically taking a break from social media and practicing mindfulness, or being in the moment.

Make it Easy for Yourself

With 2020 on the horizon, take a moment to reflect on what went well in 2019, what you’re grateful for and what you’re excited to accomplish in the new year. And, remember to start small. After a long day of work, followed by frenzied holiday shopping – sometimes taking 20 minutes to journal or color a mandala in your adult coloring book is enough. This holiday season, give yourself the gift of self-love and self-care and carry that with you throughout the new year.

When Meghan Barrett, Boston-based content contributor, isn’t writing about wellness, work or places to go in Boston, she’s whipping something up in the kitchen or practicing yoga at her local studio. Keep up with her adventures on Instagram @meegzb.