Patient Education Center

Take care of Yourself This Holiday Season

• Apr 26, 2022, 9:11 AM

The holidays are such a joyful time of year. The season is filled with festive parties, decorated malls and coffee shops brimming with the scent of pumpkin spice. Make a plan now to prioritize self-care and stay focused on all you have to be grateful for during this season. By planning ahead and staying focused you can avoid the overwhelm that many of us feel during this busy time of the year.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Plan ahead for the expenses of the season. Writing down your financial goals for the season will help you avoid overspending. Keep track of your spending regarding things such as decorations, gifts, travel and meals.

Eat well to feel good. Stay focused on eating whole, natural foods. Enjoy the holiday festivities but always fill your plate with vegetables first and enjoy your favorite foods – just in smaller portions.

Make a list. The holiday season is a wonderful time to enjoy gatherings with family and friends. Have a planner or appointment book to organize all of your to-do’s and events to keep you on track and on time. As your appointment book fills up you will have to choose what events and tasks are most important to you. Sometimes having to say ‘no’ is an important part of self-care.

Holiday Self-Care Checklist:

• Take a walk in nature
• Incorporate relaxing essential oils
• Get quality sleep
• Have a home spa day
• Eat healthy foods
• Declutter an area in your home
• Be grateful & practice positive thinking
• Plan something fun for yourself
• Get connected with friends & family
• Lighten your spirit with laughter
• Watch your favorite movie
• Do yoga or stretch at night
• Enjoy a relaxing cup of tea
• Listen to music
• Stick with your exercise plan
• Indulge in moderation
• Practice Deep Breathing