Don't Get Lost in the Holiday Magic!

December is arguably one of the busiest months of the year; a whirlwind of a month marked by the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Houses are adorned with bright lights and elaborate decorations. Shops come alive with cheerful holiday music, drawing you in to find that perfect gift. Online shopping retailers ramp up their promotional efforts to get you to spend money. Festive gatherings fill your social calendars, bringing families, friends, and co-workers together to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, and gear up to welcome the new year!

Arriving just a few days after Thanksgiving, December doesn't give you much time to prepare for the merrymaking. Even though you welcome the month's festivities, the holiday stress associated with societal and personal expectations can be outright demanding. If you aren't careful, it can cause you to abandon your essential Self-Care practices.

 But remember that neglecting your daily wellness routine can have lasting effects long after December ends. And please don't be misguided by thinking that a gift certificate to a luxurious health spa (you know - the one you received as a thoughtful Christmas present from someone who knew you would likely be overwhelmed) will compensate for the neglect. It will not. 

Be grateful for the gift, but here's the bottom line: Your Self-Care is your Healthcare. Your Self-Care is the activities you incorporate into your daily routine, and those activities are what keep you well, not an occasional trip to a spa! Count the spa as a bonus! 

I've had my share of overwhelmed Decembers, but when you learn better, you do better. Gratitude has taught me to stick to my daily wellness practices so that I can take my time and fully engage in the holiday activities of my choosing.  

So here are 10 healthy reasons to maintain your Self-Care practices and not miss out on December's holiday magic: 

1. Self-Care helps you recharge and avoid burnout.

2. Self-Care enhances Joy -Putting yourself first allows you to fully enjoy the holiday festivities.

3. Self-Care can help manage stress levels effectively.

4. Self-Care prioritizes your well-being through proper nutrition, exercise, and rest.

5. Self-Care enhances relationships - when you take care of yourself, you're more patient with others.

6. Self-Care encourages mindfulness - you appreciate the holiday moments rather than rush through them.

7. Self-Care cultivates Gratitude – it deepens your appreciation for yourself and others.

8. Self-Care encourages Creativity - a well-rested mind is more open to creative ideas, making activities like decorating, gift-giving, or cooking more enjoyable.

9. Self-Care sets a positive example and inspires others to do the same.

10. Self-Care creates a healthy balance in your mental, emotional, physical, social, spiritual, and financial well-being. 

Next week, I'll share more ways to enjoy the holiday magic without compromising your health! 

In the meantime, do you need help beginning or maintaining your wellness practices? I'm here to help with one-on-one coaching or workshops. Contact me at smallchange@myrtlerussell.com. Catch up on my Self-Care tips at www.myrtlerussell.com/blog.