We’ve moved past spooky season and into the official beginnings of the holidays. To be honest, I already feel like I’m on the brink of burnout. Maybe it’s because of the first cold weather of the season, or the multiple Thanksgivings we’ve been to (not to mention, travel details over the holidays are still being worked out). Either way, I was reminded that I needed to practice some personal self-care to get through the end of the year without losing my cool. I’m sure there are many parents who feel the same way, so I’m sharing her seven self-care tips for parents heading into the holiday season.
Featured image from interview with Ariel Kay Thiel Thomsen.
7 self-care tips for parents during the holiday season
Practicing self-care is important year-round, but the holidays can be exhausting with so much partying, planning, and gift-buying and wrapping to do. Plus, as parents of young children, it’s up to us to make this season magical. That means a lot of effort goes into decorating the halls and playing Santa. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I understand. That’s where these self-care tips for parents come in handy.
From now on, I will not only share my ideas for creating peace and quiet, but also why these practices are essential, as well as tips for incorporating them into your life. Let’s make it happen.
prioritize your needs
One self-care tip I can give parents is to prioritize. your Something you need more than anyone else. No, that’s not selfish! Prioritizing your own needs will ensure you have the energy and mental health to effectively care for your family.
If there’s something on your list that doesn’t bring you joy, consider deleting it.
Make a list of your needs and schedule time Self-care activities. Communicate your needs with your partner, friends, and family. And be sure to ask for support when you need it. If there’s something on your list that doesn’t bring you joy, consider deleting it. In other words, do less of what you can do.
set realistic expectations
Unrealistic expectations can lead to stress and disappointment. Realistic expectations help maintain a sense of balance. Reflect on past holiday seasons and set achievable goals. Be open to reevaluating things that may have stressed you in the past. Practice flexibility and be open to adjustments as needed. Is it possible to take a toddler and partake in a 7-course meal? Do you want to send 100 holiday cards to the recipient by mail? Check yourself and see how realistic this is Please ask. Be honest, are you doing too much?
practice mindfulness
It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of the holidays and go on autopilot to accomplish everything that needs to be done. This year, I challenge you to practice mindfulness before diving into everything. Mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and focus on the present moment.
Set aside a few minutes each day for a mindfulness practice. Create a vision board or visualize how you want to feel during your vacation. It’s about being at peace, being present, and being loved by your family and friends. If you can give yourself time to focus on what really matters, it will be easier to let go of what doesn’t serve you.
Less screen time, more real connections
Reducing screen time encourages more face-to-face interactions and healthier family bonds. Set screen time limits for both yourself and your child. Use the extra time to engage in quality family activities and relaxation. Social media often provides a polished highlight reel for most people. This effect is even more pronounced during the holiday season, when everyone posts pictures of their perfect trees, family photos, and matching pajama sets.
Some of us feel overwhelmed and discouraged by the pressure to do everything. If you feel like social media isn’t good enough for you, consider taking a break. (Learn more about the importance and step-by-step details of doing a social media detox during the holidays.) Remember, comparison is the thief of joy. Instead, reach out to friends and family who understand your challenges and values. We can provide emotional support and connection through phone calls, texts, or video chats.
stay active
Regular exercise is a powerful stress reliever and mood booster, but it’s often pushed to the side, especially when you have guests in town or the kids get home from school. . Instead, stick with your fitness routine or look for creative ways to stay active, like family walks, dance parties, or holiday-themed workouts.
Did you know that Exercise Could we reduce our bad mental health days by 40%? My family is big fans of healthy competition, from pickleball games to relay races that involve the whole family, to help reduce stress levels for everyone. is. There’s nothing wrong with making time for yourself to maintain your exercise routine. Modeling self-care for children only reinforces the importance of self-care for themselves. Start your favorite workout.
practice good sleep habits
I’ll be the first to admit that I often stay up late on holidays to get work done while the kids are asleep. Silently checking off items on your to-do list can be fun, but it can make your mornings tough and your days long. Staying out late at holiday parties or occasionally consuming alcohol on your days off can leave you feeling sleep deprived.
Sleep deprivation is no joke. anxiety and lack of sleep have been proven to be compatible. Self-care starts with good sleep habits. Make sure to get a full 8 hours of rest. Consider limiting your alcohol intake to get a better night’s sleep, and don’t forget the power of a 20-minute nap. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try practicing healthy sleep habits.
make space for emotions
Some people may feel like this is the happiest time of the year, while others may feel sad or depressed during the holidays. No matter what emotions the holidays evoke, it’s important to take time to reflect and embrace those emotions as they arise. This might include practicing gratitude or picking up the phone to tell someone how you’re feeling. If you feel lonely during the holidays, make plans to get out of the house and join your community. There are many opportunities to get involved this time of year.
Take-out
By understanding the importance of these self-care practices and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can make the holiday season go more smoothly and enjoy precious time with your family. We hope you can incorporate these self-care tips for parents into your life and make the most of your time with your family. Happy holiday season, everyone!