This year I’ve noticed a huge change in myself to truly enjoy the smaller things in life. That goes along with practicing self-care and doing anything, no matter how big or small, to make me feel good each and every day. That could mean sleeping an extra 15 minutes if I need it, or waking up 15 minutes earlier to make a healthy breakfast. When the holidays come around, I feel like every little thing makes me happy. There’s so much joy this time of year brings that I really can’t contain! Whether that’s making a cup of hot cocoa with extra marshmallows, turning on the Christmas tree lights, or simply lighting the fire place.
On another note, this last month of the year just always flies by. We get so busy buying gifts, planning, and so much more, that we might miss some of the little joys that the holiday brings.
Try these self-care ideas to take some time to slow down and appreciate the last little bit of the year that’s left!
Bake something
Baking is fun any time of the year, but it’s a special treat to make delicious holiday goodies to share (or eat them all yourself). Baking can be very soothing and a fun hobby!
Treat yourself
We spend so much time worrying about what to get others, that we don’t often think about ourselves. Buy yourself something you’ve had your eye on for a while. Plus, you know you’ll get at least one thing you wanted this year!
Make a holiday craft
This is one of my favorite things to do each holiday season. One, because I like to save money by making crafts myself. And two, because it’s so much fun! Invite a friend over or make something with your significant other.
Invite a friend over to watch your favorite holiday movie
Personally, I can’t ever get enough of Christmas movies. I could watch Elf at least 10 times and still probably not get tired of it. Plus, it’s good to make an extra effort this month to see your friends since they’re probably just as busy running around as you are!
Jam out to your favorite Christmas music
This one is essential especially when you put up your Christmas decorations. This year, I was dancing around belting out Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” while my husband did most of the work of putting up the Christmas tree. Just take some time to be goofy and have fun singing your favorite Christmas songs while in your Christmas PJ’s.
Enjoy the calmness of just sitting on your couch enjoying your Christmas tree lights
We feel the need to always be on the go. Take a break from everything and enjoy some silence with all your Christmas lights lit up around you. You could also curl up with a good book!
Spend time reflecting on the year
This year might not have been your best year yet, and that’s okay. Think about all the good things that did happen and make a list of your intentions for next year. Plus, if you get a head start on some goals and end the year strong, you’ll be more likely to take those goals into the new year!