The Holidays are approaching, making it an ideal time to focus on self-care.
If you’re anything like me, your schedule is about to fill up with cleaning, grocery shopping, cooking, and coordinating family get-togethers, which can lead to a bit of stress. It’s vital to take a step back this weekend and carve out a little time for yourself, even if it’s just fifteen minutes to sip your favorite tea—perhaps in a quiet moment after locking the door for privacy.
Now is the perfect occasion to unwind and recharge before the holiday hustle kicks in.
GUIDED MEDITATION
For those new to meditation, guided meditation is an excellent entry point. While indulging in a mini movie marathon or diving into a good book can be delightful, meditation provides unparalleled relaxation. You can easily find numerous guided meditations on YouTube—listening to them through headphones enhances the experience.
DISCONNECT FROM TECHNOLOGY
Stepping away from technology can be quite a challenge in today’s world, yet it’s essential for mental well-being. I recall a time during Hurricane Sandy when we lost power for nearly a week. It was a challenging time filled with uncertainty; however, being without the internet or television allowed us to bond as a family while playing board games by candlelight. Surprisingly, I found joy in the simplicity, and nearly felt a twinge of disappointment when the power was restored.
Engaging in activities like shooting hoops in the park or taking a walk without your phone can be incredibly refreshing. You’ll likely be amazed at how liberating it feels to disconnect.
INDULGE IN A DELICIOUS MEAL
This isn’t about dining out but rather stepping into your kitchen to create a delightful meal just for yourself—or inviting friends over for a fun night of cooking together. This winter, my sister and a close friend are planning monthly get-togethers at my place, where I’ll teach them some of my favorite recipes. These cooking sessions promise to be filled with laughter and quality time, which is a wonderful way to connect.
GET MOVING
When was the last time you put on music and danced around your living room until you were breathless? How long has it been since you went for a run or jumped on your bed like you did as a child?
GET COZY
I have a little ritual for those tough days, and it’s a fabulous way to unwind during the weekends as well. Whenever I feel stressed or have a rough day, I toss my favorite pajamas in the dryer for a warm hug, light my favorite candle, and binge-watch a few episodes of a sitcom while snuggling on the couch. Self-care has been a challenge for me, as I often equate productivity with worth. However, I’ve learned that kindness to myself—taking those midday naps or allowing for indulgence—helps lift my spirits more quickly.
How do you plan to relax this weekend?
