It’s December and the holiday season is upon us. It is The holiday season is often a mix of joy, excitement, and stress. Between family gatherings, work and friend parties, endless to-do lists, and often way too many snacks and drinks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and out of balance. As a health and wellness coach specializing in women and being a woman myself, I understand how frustrating this time can be for women navigating midlife. Oftentimes, I find myself in the same boat – feeling overwhelmed and full of stress, instead of the holiday joy.
Here are my top strategies for thriving—not just surviving—this holiday season.
1. Prioritize Your Well-Being
Your health and happiness should be at the top of your list. Take time each day for activities that nurture you, whether it’s a morning walk, yoga, meditation, or simply sipping tea in peace. These small moments of self-care can make a big difference in maintaining your energy and mood. If you aren’t taking care of you, taking care of all of the extras this season will be much more difficult.
2. Set Boundaries and Say No
You don’t have to say yes to every invitation or task. Overcommitting can lead to exhaustion and resentment. Politely declining or delegating responsibilities allows you to focus on what truly matters to you. Trust me on this one. Someone else is most likely wanting to say no as well. With you declining, this may allow others to realize that it is okay to say not and not feel obligated. Remember, it’s acceptable and necessary to put yourself first.
3. Mindful Eating During Festivities
Holiday gatherings often come with indulgent meals and treats. Instead of restricting yourself, practice mindful eating. Tune into your body’s hunger and fullness cues, savor each bite, and choose the dishes that truly bring you joy. If you know there will be a lot to eat at the gathering, instead of starving yourself all day, eat something before you go; that way, you will feel full and not tempted to overeat or over indulge. Plus – don’t forget to stay hydrated (with water) – sometimes thirst masquerades as hunger.
4. Move Your Body Daily
Exercise is a fantastic stress reliever and mood booster. Even a brisk 20-minute walk (especially if you can get outside) can help combat the effects of holiday stress and rich foods. If your schedule is tight, sneak in activity by dancing while cooking or doing a quick stretch session before bed. This is another way you can prioritize your well-being. Giving yourself 20 to 30 minutes a day to just focus on you can give you the energy and put you in the right mindset to tackle that to-do list.
5. Manage Stress with Gratitude
The holidays can be emotionally taxing, especially if you’re balancing work, family, and personal transitions. Combat stress by focusing on gratitude. Yes, the days are stressful, but this holiday joy can change in an instant. Whether you have little ones who are excited for the season and all it brings, remember that they don’t stay little forever. Or, you may have older parents, who just don’t have the energy like they used to create the magic. Being grateful for special moments and making memories is what the season is for. Start or end your day by writing down three things you’re thankful for or made you smile and appreciate those around you. This simple practice can shift your perspective and lift your spirits.
6. Get Quality Sleep
With late-night parties and early mornings, sleep often takes a back seat during the holidays. Protect your rest by sticking to a consistent bedtime routine. Limit screen time before bed, avoid heavy meals late at night, and create a calming environment for sleep. And, rise and shine each morning around the same time. Keeping the consistency and getting adequate rest can help your body handle all the extras that come your way.
7. Stay Connected
The holiday season can sometimes amplify feelings of loneliness or isolation, especially for women navigating life changes. Make an effort to connect with loved ones, whether it’s a heartfelt phone call, a coffee date, or attending a community event. When your are short on time, even a short text with some fun holiday emojis can brighten someone’s day. Sharing joy and laughter is the heart of the holidays.
8. Practice Self-Compassion
If things don’t go as planned, don’t be too hard on yourself. The holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about connection and meaning. Embrace the imperfections and celebrate the moments that bring you happiness. And, sometimes, it is in that imperfection, the best memories are made!
9. Plan Ahead and Simplify
Reduce last-minute stress by planning meals, shopping, and schedules ahead of time. Simplify wherever possible—opt for a potluck instead of cooking everything yourself or choose thoughtful yet simple gifts. Streamlining your tasks can free up time for what matters most. If things get derailed, go back to the previous point – practice self-compassion. Things don’t always go right, and they won’t. Having a plan in place to follow, keeping things simple and finding joy in the process can be all we need to make it through the season.
10. Reflect and Reset
As the year comes to an end, take time to reflect on your accomplishments and set intentions for the year ahead. This season is a perfect opportunity to celebrate your journey and envision the next chapter with excitement and purpose. Looking back, finding the joy is what the season is about. Don’t dwell on what didn’t happen, because maybe this past year wasn’t the time for it. Sometimes, just surviving is what matters. Next year, set intentions to be done throughout the year. The resolutions won’t happen in the first few months. Reflect on the good, the laughs and what is to come!
The holidays are a season of giving, but don’t forget to give to yourself. By prioritizing your health, setting boundaries, and focusing on joy and gratitude, you can navigate this time with grace and confidence. Remember, it’s not about doing it all; it’s about doing what feels right for you.
Give Yourself the Gift of Health
If you want more for you this upcoming year, now is the time to invest in your well-being with personalized health coaching. Let’s work together to create a plan that empowers you to feel your best—during the holidays and beyond. Sign up today for a complimentary consultation and start your journey to a healthier, more vibrant you! Click here to get started on your health journey today.