The holiday season is one of my favorite times of year—there’s something so magical about the twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and, of course, all the festive food! But let’s be real: with all that magic comes a lot of extra to-dos, from holiday shopping and cooking to decorating and endless social events.

This year, I wanted to enjoy the holidays without burning out, so I decided to focus on self-care. I started with a few simple, calming habits to keep myself grounded and energized. These five small changes helped me stay sane, relaxed, and ready to take on the holiday craziness. Here’s what worked wonders for me:

1. Started My Mornings with a Mindful Moment

Instead of reaching for my phone first thing, I gave myself five to ten minutes of quiet time in the morning. I would make a cup of tea, take a few deep breaths, and spend a moment just being. This little pause helped me set a calm tone for the day and gave me a moment to mentally prepare for whatever holiday chaos awaited. It was a simple habit that kept me feeling centered and clear-headed.

2. Practiced “Festive” Journaling

I’m a big fan of journaling, but during the holiday season, I kept it light and joyful. Each morning or evening, I’d jot down a quick list of things I was grateful for or what I was looking forward to. This helped me stay focused on the little joys, which made the holiday season feel so much brighter and helped keep stress at bay.

3. Made Time for a 10-Minute Stretch

With so much running around, I found myself tense and achy by the end of each day. I started a nightly stretch routine with some gentle yoga, and it was a game-changer! Not only did it help me relax my muscles, but it also gave me a little time to unwind, clear my mind, and prepare for a good night’s sleep. A ten-minute stretch might sound small, but it made a huge difference.

4. Set “Tech-Free” Hours

This one was tough, but so worth it! I decided to go tech-free for an hour or two each evening, which meant no phone, no social media, and no holiday emails. Instead, I’d read a book, take a bath, or just chat with my family. Giving myself a break from screens helped me feel so much more present and less overwhelmed by all the holiday noise.

5. Kept It Simple with a Few Skincare Luxuries

As much as I love pampering, I kept my self-care routine super simple but effective. I’d put on a hydrating sheet mask, use a soothing face oil, or give myself a mini-facial massage a couple of nights a week. This little skincare treat made me feel refreshed and gave me a few peaceful moments just for myself. Plus, my skin loved it!

Adding these five habits into my daily routine helped me get through the holidays feeling calm, centered, and in control. Instead of running on empty, I felt grounded and ready to enjoy every festive moment. If you’re looking to stay sane and stress-free this holiday season, I hope these self-care ideas bring you a little peace, too. 💖

Here’s to a holiday season full of joy, balance, and moments of calm. Happy holidays, and don’t forget to take care of yourself! 🎄✨