Self Care Tips to Keep your Holiday Season Full of Light and Stress Free!
Whether it’s money, time, family, work, moving, 2022 (already?!) etc. stressing you out this Holiday season here are some tips and tricks to help you get through the month of December and carry you into the new year shining bright!
1. Journal
Take a break from social media and write it all down. Journaling improves cognitive functioning, reduces stress and can even strengthen the immune system response. Jolene Hart prompts us to reflect on our energy influencers, our AM/PM routines and poses thought-provoking questions about our past, present and future in her book Shine On. The holidays are incredibly draining, reflecting on your energy influencers (sleep, food, work, breath, etc) can help you make the proper adjustments to better your daily life. So next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the thought of talking politics with Grandma on Christmas Eve, or figuring out New Year’s Eve plans, make yourself a cup of hot tea and get to writing!
2. Budget
In 2019 The average U.S. household spent $1,496 during the Christmas holidays (fortunly.com). Keeping track of your expenses with a budget book can alleviate some financial stress and also help you reflect on where your money is going. Are these brands and companies that are worth putting your money into? Stressed about how much you’re spending? Just remember it’s the thought that counts!
3. Practice Personal Hygiene
This may seem like a simple one, however, it is soooo important. The days are shorter, nighters are longer and the air is definitely chillier! Winter can be difficult for a lot of people and just getting out of bed can feel exhausting. Basic hygiene is a form of self care that can be super difficult during the holidays. Brush your teeth for the full two minutes and give yourself some “you” time. Activities that force us to tune into our senses are often very soothing, and the added sensory input can help people feel more grounded and mindful rather than just completing the activity while worrying about something else. Start your day with a fresh mind or let your brain unwind from the hustle and bustle of the day by focusing on the simple task at hand and nothing else.
Bonus: upgrade your shower by adding Leif’s Floral shower drops. Lavender is known to help alleviate stress and calm our mind/body.
4. Seek support
Plan dinner with a friend that you haven’t seen in a while. Don’t be afraid to vent to your mom, great Aunt, brother, coworker, whoever! The holidays can be lonely but you are not alone. Feeling overwhelmed with emotion but not sure where to start? Try using Dive Deep Meditation Cards to spark conversation and guide reflection.
5. Sweat it out!
Regular sauna use lowers cortisol levels - the body’s main stress hormone. Infrared saunas increase relaxation by optimizing the production + reception of the natural antidepressants in our brain (dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin) thus reducing feelings of frustration and anxiety. So while you’re out and about buying everyone else gifts remember to take the time and treat yourself! Sweat out all the holiday stress and try meditating or listening to calming music during your sauna sesh.
P.S. we’re having a BOGO SALE: On 12/14 ONLY get two 30 minute infrared sauna sessions for $40