Ready or not, the holiday season is in full swing! There are so many emotions that come with this time of year. Everything from happiness, anxiety, joy to panic (you forgot about Aunt Betty’s gift didn’t you??).

You may have lost or gained family and friends, you may be excited for celebrations or want them over as soon as possible. Whatever your situation, it is important to care for yourself first. Your mind and body will thank you for it!

So, how can we not just “make it through” the holidays, but keep our healthy habits and protect our happiness? Fret not, I’ve combined a list of things that you can do these holidays, alone or with family, that will help you stay calm, grateful, and in full control of your happiness.

1. Focus on your Mental Health.

First things first, focus on your mental health. You might be alone, so you can feel isolated, or you can be with your family and feel completely overwhelmed. Both situations can bring a lot of emotions, baggage, and discomfort that can throw you off a little bit. During this time, stop engaging with everything and anything that doesn’t bring you joy. Remember, it is always ok to say NO. Acknowledging your emotions and taking steps to accept them is important because everyone around you, family, friends, and neighbors are impacted by your energy.

What do I do to focus on my mental health? Begin every day making a list of 3-5 things that make you smile. I also suggest writing them on a sticky note and sticking them on your bathroom mirror. That way you’ll smile each time you use the restroom!

**2. Surround Yourself with Happy, Uplifting People.**

Surround yourself with people who support you in everything you do. Come together, host dinners, play games or participate in Secret Santa.
If there are people at work you haven’t had the chance to interact with, change that this year. If there’s a next-door neighbor you didn’t find the time to get to know, bake a tray of cookies and enjoy them together over a mug of warm cocoa. You may end up being lifelong friends!
Surrounding yourself with true, genuine connections is important – they are most likely experiencing the same emotions as you. Be a ray of sunshine. After all, isn't it the main purpose behind winter holidays?

3. Practice Meditation and Gratitude Work.

There is no wrong way to meditate or practice expressing gratitude. You can do this sitting, standing, laying down, in your car, etc… Simply close your eyes, take long deep breaths and focus on all the positives happening in your life right now. Blocking out some time on your calendar to quiet your mind is a helpful mindfulness practice that helps you stay focused and be aware of your present moment. Let me share a little secret of mine, smile at the end when you open your eyes. Smiling activates molecules in your brain that fend off stress!

Journaling, saying grace, or being grateful for your blessings are additional tools you can practice to keep positive and reset your mental and physical state.

4. Build a Self-Care Routine.

Protecting your skin against winter skin woes is a big struggle, especially for folks who primarily have dry skin. To build a solid yet low-budget skincare routine, you can start by washing your face with a cleanser, layering it with a toner or a serum, and hydrating with a moisturizer. Brands like The Ordinary or CeraVe have low-cost products that help maintain a healthy skin barrier. But a healthy self-care routine is more than just the products.

To give your routine an edge, use lukewarm water to prevent dryness. Keep your skin hydrated by always keeping a water bottle with you. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen whenever you step out in the sun. These are some things that you can easily do at home to care for your well-being.

5. Switch to Unique, Inexpensive Gifts.

Holiday gifts are more than scented candles, mugs, or blankets. While they’re great, there are tons of thoughtful gifts you can choose from that spread joy and create happy memories. Gifting home-baked brownies, bread, and cookies is one of the easiest ways you can show appreciation for your loved ones. If baking is not your forte, then you can also make a mini scrapbook of things you've done with your friend or partner.

A book from a favorite author, a little potted plant, or home-grown succulents, a record player, oversized flannels, a sushi-making kit, and comfy socks are some additional unique, budget-friendly gift ideas that show the recipient that you care about them!

**6. Consider Outdoor Experiences.**

Think outside the house! Considering outdoor experiences during the holidays is a great way to unplug and destress. Now, this doesn’t mean flying off to another country. You can just simply opt for a hike in a mountain or hiking trails, arrange a picnic in a local park or playground, have a snowball fight or take a post dinner walk before dessert. You can also hold a bonfire and roast smores, play flag football or host a snow sculpture competition (Don’t forget your camera!).
The most important thing to remember is that the holidays are more about spirit, memories, and positivity than the exchange of gifts.

Conclusion

Remember, the holidays only come once a year and they are over in a flash. Your mental and physical health are with you year-round, so be sure to prioritize YOU. Don’t forget to breathe and take in all the positive moments that you can. Take the pictures and give out your hugs! I want you to enjoy these moments because your happiness habits are my priority.

Take care of yourself and your loved ones because you deserve it.

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