Our Favorite Ways to Unwind During the Holidays

a person laying on the couch reading a magazine relaxing over holidays

We all love the holidays, but let’s be honest. It’s one of the most stressful times of the year.

The pressure of juggling our calendars, rushing from one event to the next, and trying to get our shopping done on time combines with the ordinary pressures of life to make us feel burned out if we’re not careful.

That’s why it’s so important to take time during this busy season to unwind and recharge.

Here are some of our favorite ways to unwind during the holidays.

Unplug

Spend an hour every day completely disconnected from your phone. While this practice can be challenging until you get used to it, you will quickly reap the benefit of a more relaxed mind by avoiding the stimulation of technology, even for a short time.

One bonus to this practice? It allows you more quality time with loved ones when you’re not interrupted by the constant buzzing of your phone demanding your attention.

You might also consider setting your email to its automated out-of-office reply during the holidays to give you a little extra peace of mind.

Journal

Writing is a wonderful way to reconnect with your true self by exploring ideas that you are passionate about.  Research an interesting topic and write about it. Start a blog. Or simply jot down a couple of pages every day for the purpose of venting. This practice can be very therapeutic, allowing you to get things “off your chest.”

Enjoy Reconnecting with Loved Ones

Life gets so busy during the holidays that sometimes we forget the people who really matter the most. Designate time in your busy schedule to simply hang out with family or loved ones. Make the commitment to enjoy a meal together or go out together to do an activity you all like, such as going for a bike ride or taking in a movie. Often, sharing our precious time with family members is a gift that is cherished far more than anything you could purchase at the store.

Exercise

We all know it’s important to exercise every day, yet we come up with a million excuses not to do it. Could it be because we don’t really want to? And yet once we do get in a workout, we feel so much better.

The holiday season is the perfect opportunity to get back in the habit. Carve out a chunk of time every day to enjoy some movement in the fresh air with a brisk walk or a run.

Sleep In

As work and school schedules ease up a little over the holidays, take advantage by turning off your alarm. Wake up when your body is ready.

Even if you only get up a half hour later than usual, you’re sure to feel well-rested and refreshed. You might even enjoy laying in bed for a while before getting up. Simply doing nothing can feel blissful when you’ve been running from one event or errand to another.

Embracing any of these simple practices can help you remain calm and content during the holiday season and all year long.

Go ahead, you deserve it.

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