December gets crazy busy. Parties, shopping, school events. There's the added stressor of money — how are we supposed to buy presents if we're already living paycheck to paycheck? We get to/have to see family, so squeeze some time for that in between end-of-the-year work projects. We overeat at parties, then feel guilty about it. All of this takes its toll on our mental health, so maybe you need to hear this today: Stop. Just stop.
Stop putting pressure on yourself to buy the perfect present.
Stop putting pressure on yourself to host the perfect party.
Stop putting pressure on yourself to make it magical.
Stop putting pressure on yourself to be the perfect daughter/daughter-in-law/mother/wife.
Breathe.
Here's what matters: Show the people you love that you love them. But in order to do that, you have to put your own oxygen mask on first. Read on for seven things you can do for yourself this month. Take what feels good and let the rest go.
Image via Imaxtree
Cover image via Imaxtree
Keep Up Your Exercise Routine
So, we have a plate — and our plates are full of work, school, kids, exercise, spending time with friends, taking care of our animals, volunteering and, well, I guess we need to sleep too. So when something else gets heaped on our plate, something inevitably falls off. For me, exercise is the first to go, and it's always when I need it the most. My brain functions best if I have done something active in the morning. If this is you too, make time for it. Walk your dog for some quiet time. Take a spin class for some motivation. Kickbox to get your aggression out. Just move, and give your body and mind what it needs.
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Don't Hate, Meditate
The benefits of meditation are well-known. it's proven to reduce stress. But if you're not used to meditating, you may feel like you're not doing it right, or that it's too hard. Give yourself credit for trying! If one thing isn't working for you, try another. There are apps you can use, tutorials and YouTube has a ton of guided meditations. Find what works for you. For the skeptics among us or just those who love curse words, this one is for you.
Image via Imaxtree
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is another thing that gets pushed to the side when we get busy. But it's so important. Listen, I know you were supposed to make cookies tonight, but let it slide and buy some in the morning. Get into bed early and wake up refreshed and ready for a new day — because the new day is jam-packed and we have to be ready.
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Spend Time With People You Care About (and Let the Other Stuff Go)
During the holidays, we get so wrapped up in "I gotta go here" and "but they invited me to this" that it's crazy-making. Here is your hall pass to skip the party that you really don't want to go to. Even if you think it might hurt someone's feelings or piss someone off, it's not your job to make everyone happy. But DO carve out time for people who fill you up. The people that make you laugh. The people who are really good listeners. Make time for your tribe this holiday season.
Image via Imaxtree
