Here we are again—holiday season, everybody! November and December are jam-packed with big and small celebrations: Thanksgiving, Winter Solstice, Christmas, New Year’s, Festivus (any fans?), and plenty more. Sure, it’s a magical time of year, but let’s not kid ourselves—it’s also a lot of work.
Gifts don’t buy themselves, people. Menus need planning. Calendars have to be coordinated. And that magical, Pinterest-worthy holiday table? Yeah, someone (you) is making that happen. It’s all enough to make a person want to crawl under a blanket and hibernate until January.
But guess what? This year can be different.
This year, let’s rewrite the rules. Move your name to the top of that holiday to-do list and make self-care the priority. No, it’s not selfish—it’s necessary.
Read that again: YOU ARE NOT BEING SELFISH BY TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF.
When you take care of yourself, you show up as your best self for others. All the shopping, cooking, and celebrating? It’ll still be there, but you will feel better tackling it. Here’s how to bring some “me time” into the chaos of the season.
1. Get a Massage
You knew this was coming—we’re a massage therapy school and spa, so of course we’re putting this first. But it’s not just a sales pitch! Massage isn’t some exclusive luxury reserved for the 1%. It’s a legitimate health and wellness practice that benefits your body and mind.
We humans are literally designed to receive touch—it’s essential for survival! During a massage, your body tells your brain to release feel-good chemicals like serotonin and endorphins. These little mood-boosting miracles reduce stress, ease tension, and help you find a sense of calm amidst the chaos.
Massage doesn’t just relax tight muscles; it calms your entire nervous system. And let’s be honest—everyone’s nervous system could use a reset this time of year.
So, go ahead. Book that massage you’ve been dreaming of. Treat yourself to that Himalayan salt stone massage you’ve heard so much about. The holiday season is about giving, so why not give yourself the gift of relaxation?
2. Take a Deep Breath
No, seriously—breathe.
If you’ve heard about breathwork but haven’t tried it, now’s the time. Deep, mindful breathing is a game-changer. It lowers your heart rate, reduces anxiety, and activates your parasympathetic nervous system (that’s the one responsible for helping you chill out).
And the best part? It’s free, and you already have all the tools you need.
Try this: Next time you’re about to start your car, sit for a moment before driving off. Close your eyes, inhale deeply for four seconds, hold for four seconds, then exhale for four seconds. Do this for five minutes and feel the difference—it’s like a mini spa day for your brain.
3. Buy Yourself a Crystal
Crystals: are they magical, or are they just pretty rocks?
Maybe you believe crystals have healing properties. Maybe you think it’s all nonsense. Either way, hear us out. Even if crystals don’t actually hold mystical powers, they can still be powerful tools. Why? Because your brain associates meaning with them.
Carry a chunk of rose quartz, and you’ll think of self-love and emotional healing every time you see it. That’s a pretty great reminder during the holiday hustle.
Here are some crystals we love for the season:
Amethyst: Known for calming energy, perfect for reducing stress and anxiety.
Rose Quartz: A little love for yourself, promoting emotional healing and kindness.
Citrine: Brings joy, energy, and creativity—ideal for keeping the holiday spirit alive.
Carry them in your pocket, put them on your desk, or use them during meditation. Whether it’s magic or mindfulness, they’ll help you focus on the good vibes.
4. Kill a Tradition (or Two)
Let’s get real for a second: not all traditions are sacred.
Is there something you do every year that no longer sparks joy? Let it go.
Hate writing Christmas cards? Skip them. Post a cute holiday photo online instead.
Dread the office holiday party? Politely decline and enjoy a quiet night at home.
Exhausted by the endless cooking? Serve breakfast for dinner on paper plates. It’s okay!
Here’s the thing: No one is keeping score of how “holiday-perfect” you are. The people who care about you want your presence, not your perfection. If a tradition makes you happy, keep it. If it doesn’t? Give yourself permission to let it go.
Prioritize YOU This Holiday Season
The holidays should be about joy, not burnout. By putting yourself first, you can enjoy the season from a place of abundance instead of exhaustion.
Book that massage.
Breathe deeply.
Treat yourself to something that makes you smile (yes, even if it’s just a pretty rock).
Let go of the things that don’t bring you joy.
The time to prioritize YOU is now. You’re worth it—no matter what your holiday traditions say.