It’s true, this really is the most wonderful time of the year, but it does not come without its stresses and strains. I think we often feel it more than anyone else because we generally feel the pressure to make it a perfect holiday, filled with everyone’s favorites and the unreal expectation that it has to be the best Christmas ever! And of course, we must be sure that not only our family feels that way, but that our photos posted to social media get exactly that reaction and approval.
It really can be so exhausting. Can I make a suggestion? What if every day, beginning now through New Year’s Day, you pick something from the list below, or other ideas you come across to do something nice for YOU during this especially busy season? Now I know, I know. It goes against everything we stand for as women, wives and mothers. Put myself first?? But caring for yourself isn’t selfish. It’s like building up your giving muscles so you have more to give…It’s like going to the gym for your attitude!
We seem to understand this concept in everyday life. We know that our cars are only going to go so far when they are running on fumes, refilling our tank will enable us to go further, for longer. We don’t expect to keep pouring something out of an empty pitcher, we know the vessel has to be refilled to keep pouring out. It’s no different with us. You remember in the old cowboy movies how sometimes they had to decide: do we stop and re-shoe our horse so we can ride faster and stronger, or do we continue to limp on while we lose more ground with each step? The wise cowboy would always stop, take care of the business at hand, and then ride hard to his destination. Friends, it’s time for us to shoe our horses, and fill our tanks. I hope some of these ideas will help you enjoy this season as never before.
1. Walk or get some type of exercise daily.
2. Listen to your favorite music.
3. Enjoy a nice, warm bubble bath.
4. Light some scented candles.
5. Spend 15 minutes in the fresh air and sunshine.
6. Go outside and plan your garden for the Spring.
7. Sit on your porch or deck (a warm throw and a warm drink would be awesome!).
8. If you have a fireplace, sit down and enjoy it (I have an electric fireplace, but it works).
9. Laugh! Enjoy funny movies, TV shows or books.
10. Enjoy a few minutes of nonsense reading, you know something just for fun, not trying to learn anything.
11. Try to end your work- day by supper and use the evening to relax whenever you can.
12. Sip your favorite warm drink, and just maybe have a cookie with it!
13. Get your nails or hair done or just buy a new nail polish color. A little change to your appearance can make a big difference in how you feel.
14. Learn a new hobby or craft, or maybe pick up an old one you convinced yourself you don’t have time for anymore.
15. Watch your favorite Christmas movie for the one hundredth time!
16. Enjoy time with a pet if you have one. If you don’t maybe volunteer at a shelter and share the love. Pets have been proven to lower blood pressure plus a lot of other great benefits.
17. Get some inexpensive binoculars and watch the birds! I have books and I enjoy identifying and recording the ones I see, and there are identification apps you can use. (Oh, you might want to mention this new hobby to your neighbors!)
18. Read your favorite Psalms. I love Psalm 23. Or maybe explore an entirely new-to-you book in the Bible.
19. Find a seasonal devotional book to read. You can order one, or probably find any number of them in a thrift or used bookstore.
20. Pray and meditate on God’s Word. This will literally melt stress away no matter what your circumstances or pressures.
Find what works for you in your current season, if its these, great. If not find what will work and begin being nice to YOU today!
