Loves, it’s getting close to crunch time. You may be overwhelmed with parties, plans and events. You may have guests, you may be a guest in someone’s home. It’s the holiday season and as amazing as it is to be with our loved ones and celebrate with friends, how do we stay sane?
Alone Time
I’m an introvert, an outgoing one, but one that needs and craves alone time. When I was younger I would push myself to be at every party till the last minute, say yes to every invite and spend as much time out and about as possible! The result? I burned out. I’ve now accepted that I need time alone, and also know that it’s not a bad thing–I’m a better me when I have it! But every year the holiday season can lead to over scheduling and the temptation to go-go-go. My solution? I schedule alone time. From a night in to an afternoon alone, I make sure that I have time built in just for me. Everyone needs a different amount of alone time, but I think in the hustle and bustle of the season that we all need a little down time. Build it in.
Work Outs
I’ve mentioned more than once that I’m a workout junkie, and while there is a physical component to that, there’s a mental one as well. My workouts keep me grounded, in my body, and a bit more sane. This time of year can lead to over-indulging in all sorts of ways, but knowing that I have a workout planned helps me not freak out about that. It also allows me to release any frustration that I’ve let built up. My faves? Spinning, Pilates, dance, barre and boxing.
Volunteering
In this season, it can be easy to get caught up in the commercialism. What we have, what we can give, what we buy. There are those who don’t have that luxury, for whom the bare necessities are a struggle. A friend recently reminded me that giving back is the best gift. So volunteering for a shelter, with kids, sending money to those who need us in Syria; anything that reminds us that we are truly rich–and that this season isn’t about the number of presents. It’s a win-win.
To de-stress I also have a habit of watching Christmas commercials and movies. We know my favorite movie for the season is “Miracle on 34th St” but I also love “White Christmas” (the songs get me!) and this year these are the commercials I love:
Mrs Claus for Marks and Spenser
HM
this one about coming home
And this one
How else do you stay sane? If nothing else, may I recommend wine and new shoes?
Wishing us all a week of joy, sanity and amazing shoes! XO RA
