The last week of December is arguably one of the busiest of the year.  Holiday celebrations abound, loved ones travel far and wide to visit with each other, and people are planning how they will spend the last night of 2018.  It’s a whirlwind of merriment and mayhem, my friends.

With all the craziness this last week of the year can bring, it’s more important than ever to take care of YOU.  Yes, even though this is the season of love, giving, kindness and togetherness, it’s not selfish to slow down and take some time for self-care.  In fact, it’s just the opposite.  Trust me when I say you’re going to enjoy all those gatherings and relatives a LOT more if you’re taking regular breaks to rest and recharge.

Here are some simple self-care ideas for the last week of 2018 that I hope will serve you well.  Feel free to take what works for you and leave the rest, but I suggest planning one self-care activity for each day this week, starting with today, Christmas Eve.  Sure, you might be running around like a chicken with your head cut off (I know I will be!), but we can all find a quiet 15-20 minutes to have a little break.  Are you with me?  Yassss, Bestie, let’s do this thing!

December 24 

Light a candle and enjoy a mug of hot cocoa.

Spend some time outside being active (you’re gonna want those endorphins later today!).

Put on your coziest clothes (and maybe a blanket) and snuggle up with a cup of tea.

December 25 

Admire the decorations in your home – really take time to enjoy all your hard work!

Enjoy a delicious holiday sweet treat – guilt free!

Snuggle up by the twinkling lights of your tree or the hygge-est lighting you have.  Take deep breaths and relax.

December 26

Spend 5 minutes deep breathing outdoors.

Enjoy a candlelit dinner with loved ones.

Get cozy on the couch and determine: if you can’t reach it, you don’t need it!

December 27

Try some crocheting or knitting (so hygge right now).

Bundle up and take a brisk walk outside.

Put on warm socks or slippers, light a candle (or several) and enjoy your favorite book.

December 28

Clean out and organize your purse.

Catch up with an old friend.

Savor a cup of coffee or tea from the comfort of your bed.

December 29

Grab a hot drink and a blanket and do some reading outside.

Make homemade hot cocoa.

Go for a hike in a beautiful spot.

December 30

Spend time doing something crafty or creative.

Add some hygge lights to a room in your home.

Do some journaling with a cup of tea and a treat.

 

There you have it, my friends!  There’s nothing earth-shattering about any of these ideas, but that’s not the point.  The point is to take time for YOU.  Yes, even at this busy time of year.  Especially at this busy time of year.

I’m sending you the warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  Can’t wait to hear about all your holiday self-care goodness (and see it) when you share a photo using #showusyourselfcare.

Much love to you!!