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.
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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.
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Do Something Nice for Others
This one might sound crazy when we already don't have time for ourselves. But studies show that when you volunteer or do a random act of kindness, it actually benefits your mental well-being. Helping others makes you feel more connected and gets rid of the negativity. So, shovel snow for an elderly neighbor, offer to babysit so a friend can shop or bring cookies to the post office. Just don't overdo it — these are self-care tips after all.
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