This post was sponsored by Massage Envy as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.
With just over 1 month until Christmas, I can already feel the stress of the season weighing on me. In the midst of our usual homework and extra-curricular activities, I’m dreaming up Thanksgiving recipes, decorating our home for Christmas, shopping for holiday gifts, and striving to ensure the busyness of this season doesn’t overwhelm me (or my kids!). So much of what I do is aimed at creating memories that my children will remember long after they’ve left our home to start their own families. But very often I find myself pulled in often opposite, frequently competing directions.
Part of my job involves jet-setting for face-to-face meetings and fact-finding. Before our plane taxis down the runway, I’m reminded of the importance of securing my own oxygen mask before assisting others, including my kids in the event that they happen to be traveling with me. Initially, it seems selfish…it seems to imply a lack of care for others…an inability to think outside of oneself. The reality is that if I’m suffocating…I’m no good to anyone…not even myself.
This holiday season, I guarantee that there may be moments when I’m feeling overwhelmed, tasked with an ever-growing to-do list. It is in these moments that I’m going to stop and take care of myself before I send one more email…write one more article…wash one more dish…commit to one more lunch or activity that I realistically know will further add to intensity of the season. With Thanksgiving next week and Christmas right around the corner, here are 5 ways to take care of yourself this holiday season.
1. Give yourself a day off. As a writer, working from home affords me the freedom of a flexible schedule. But that also means that I find myself working more hours than I anticipate. In fact, I presume that the number of hours I work exceeds even that which I presuppose. While some industries slow down during the holiday season, many, including retail, tourism, marketing/pr, and catering actually become busier. If you’re like the many Americans living in this country, come Thanksgiving, you may have accrued vacation time that may or may not be carried over into the new year. Whether it’s a weekend staycation or a more elaborate vacation, time away from your normal routine can do wonders for rejuvenating your soul and giving you the mental and physical energy you need to carry you through the season.
2. Embrace the word no. The transition from NICU nurse to full-time freelance writer was daunting. I knew that my success was solely dependent upon me. During that time, I was afraid to say no for fear of missing out on an opportunity…a connection. Eight years later, I can say no with certainty and ease, knowing that this ultimately frees me to say yes to the things that really matter.
3. Take a digital break. In an industry where being in touch with current events moment by moment, I’m guilty of spending more time on my phone than I anticipate. This holiday season, commit to going tech-free during meals, after normal business hours, on weekends/days off, and most importantly, while on vacation.
4. Let it go. I already know that there are things that won’t get done, as is the case every single year. If I’ve prioritized appropriately, those things like picking up a pre-made side dish for Thanksgiving instead of cooking from scratch or sending out e-cards as opposed to paper cards will largely go unnoticed.
5. Take care of body and your soul. Along with the stress that seems to go hand-in-hand with this season, it’s also the germiest time of the year. Simple things like eating healthy, sleeping 7-8 hours, exercising and getting a regular, therapeutic massage can help revitalize your body and soul. These simple, but necessary self-care rituals are not optional. Taking time to take care of your whole self will ensure that you enjoy every moment of this magical season.
Total Body Care isn’t a luxury…it’s essential for your overall well-being. “Because” moments, like the week I forgot my son needed lunch and I had to drive all the way back to his school (thereby missing an important meeting), happen every single day in our family. Sometimes they’re easy and fixable…and other times they elicit stress or complicate an already complicated day. It is in those moments where I purport to take time out of my day to take care of myself. Massage Envy understands the importance of Total Body Care and believes that massages and facials are essential for achieving longstanding wellness. With locations across the country, I encourage you to pause this holiday season and schedule your next massage and/or facial at Massage Envy.
How will you take care of yourself this holiday season? I invite you to share your own tips below.
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