The holidays bring all kinds of excitement, but for many, it can also be a very overwhelming and stress-filled time. In fact, according to a recent Sleepopolis study, accessible by clicking here, eighty-one percent of people are more stressed during the holiday season.
This could be for many reasons, such as being pulled out of our usual routine, growing social pressures, or a lack of time. But no matter the reason, prioritising self-care is essential for maintaining balance and well-being, and getting the most out of your break!
Here are some quick tips on recognising when you need self-care most:
1. You’re Feeling Stressed or Overwhelmed
If your brain’s constantly buzzing, and you feel like you can’t catch a break, it might be time to step back and prioritise some self-care.
2. You’re Snapping at People
If you’re more short-tempered or irritable than usual, it could be a sign you're running on empty and need to recharge.
3. Lack of Energy
When you’re constantly fatigued, even after a good night’s sleep, it might be a sign that your body is craving some TLC.
4. Physical Symptoms
Headaches, tension in your neck or shoulders, or stomach aches are common signs that stress is taking a toll on your body.
5. Feeling Isolated
If you notice you’re avoiding social interactions or withdrawing from others, it's a good sign you might need to reconnect and take care of your mental health.
Try to check in with yourself regularly these holidays, or talk to your friends and/or family members about helping you identify these signs when they pop up. Sometimes the people around us can see changes in ourselves before we can, so it's great to have them in your corner.
Now, what can we do when we realise we need to prioritise self-care?
Easy Self-Care Tips to Stay Calm and Happy
- Create a Holiday Routine
You may feel like you want to do everything you can this holiday break, but it’s important to balance relaxation and holiday activities so you don’t overschedule yourself.
Try setting daily or weekly self-care goals during the holidays. Here’s a few we recommend:
Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night.
Spend at least 30 minutes offline a day (e.g. reading, drawing, or listening to music).
Write down 3 things you’re grateful for each day.
Do 30 minutes of physical activity 3-4 times a week (e.g. walking, riding, or dancing to your favourite holiday songs).
Eat at least one fruit or vegetable with every meal.
Do something kind for someone else (e.g. write a thank-you note, make a homemade gift, or help with extra holiday chores).
- Practise Mindful Breathing and Meditation
Simple breathing exercises or meditation practices can help you unwind after a busy day, or make yourself feel centred after you wake up.
Click here for a list of free meditation apps to try out.
- Digital Detox
Digital detoxes are flexible, and can last a few hours or days depending on what you’re comfortable with. However, any amount of time can improve your mental health, increase sleep quality, deepen your face-to-face social connections, and increase your productivity and focus.
Here are some activity ideas for when you’re on a digital detox (or just wanting some time away from screens):
Time Outside
Whether it's a stroll through the park, a hike, or just walking around your neighbourhood, aim to spend at least 20 minutes a day outside. Fresh air and sunlight help improve mood and mental clarity.
Try Outdoor Sports or Activities
Get involved in outdoor sports like soccer, skateboarding, cycling, or swimming. These activities not only get you moving but also encourage you to disconnect and enjoy the natural environment. Plus, you may find a new community to connect with!
If you’re nervous about swimming or doing other sport activities while on your period, click here to see our period swimwear collection or here to see our period dance underwear collection for an eco-friendly way to access the mental health and screen-free benefits of physical activity at any time of the month.
Explore Creative Hobbies
Try drawing, painting, knitting, or writing. These hobbies engage your mind without needing a screen and allow you to express creativity in a relaxing way. Given the holidays are coming up, you can also partake in some festive crafts like making ornaments or baked goods for gifts.
Start a Garden or Grow Plants
Gardening is a calming activity that connects you with nature and can be done anywhere—from a backyard to a small balcony or even indoor pots.
Treating Your Body Right: Nourish, Rest, and Hydrate
- Healthy Eating
The holiday season can get quite indulgent, making it even more important to have balanced meals. Enjoy the sweet treats on offer, but consider being more mindful in your eating. This could include taking smaller servings to try multiple types without feeling ill and listening when your body tells you what it wants.
To ensure your meal is balanced, ensure you have:
Protein (this helps repair and create new cells in your body).
Carbohydrates (this is a source of energy, and should ideally be a combination of starch and fiber).
Fats (healthy fats are the best for us, helping us absorb vitamins and produce good hormones).
Vitamins and minerals (these come from a variety of fruits and vegetables and keep us from getting sick).
Water (you should be having at least 6 glasses of water a day, including a glass with every meal, to ensure your body can get the appropriate nutrients, get rid of waste, and keep our body effective).
- Sleeping Well
Sleeping well doesn’t just mean getting enough sleep, it also means practising good sleep hygiene.
This includes:
Setting a Consistent Sleep Schedule (a.k.a go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends). This helps regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally.
Limit Screen Time Before Bed. The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your ability to fall asleep, so try to avoid screens for at least 30-60 minutes before bedtime to help your brain wind down.
Make Your Sleep Environment Comfortable. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Use blackout curtains if you need, and consider white noise or earplugs if you're sensitive to sounds. A comfortable mattress and pillows are also key to a good night's sleep.
Watch What You Eat and Drink. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and heavy meals close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep. Opt for a light snack if you're a bit hungry, but try not to drink too many liquids to prevent waking up in the middle of the night.
Wear Comfy Clothes. If it’s summer where you are, try out bamboo pyjamas to keep from overheating at night, or if you’re on your period, check out our period sleep shorts to keep yourself from worrying about overnight leaks.
These are just a few of the endless self-care tips you could implement these holidays, so keep researching and testing them to find the best ones for you.
Next, we recommend reading this positive thinking blog to keep your mind kind this coming holiday season.
