The Gift of Self-Care: How to Nurture Yourself This Holiday Season
The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year. For many people, it’s a season filled with decorating, baking, shopping, wrapping, and planning—all to create a joyful and memorable experience for their loved ones. It’s a labor of love, and it’s more than worth it when you see the smiles on your family’s faces. But amidst all the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to forget about one important thing: yourself.
As women, we often pour so much of ourselves into making the holidays special for others that we neglect our own needs. Your generosity and dedication are making memories that will last a lifetime for those around you. Now imagine being able to show up even better for those you love because you took the time to recharge by taking care for yourself, too.
This December, let’s make space for self-care. Here’s how to prioritize your well-being without losing the magic of the holidays.
1. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
It’s tempting to think you need to do it all. But remember, it’s okay to step back. Take moments to rest and recharge. Whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee before the house wakes up, an evening bubble bath, or simply saying no to an extra commitment, giving yourself permission to slow down is a gift in itself.
2. Simplify Where You Can
You don’t need to have Pinterest-perfect holidays for them to be meaningful. Focus on what truly brings joy to you and your family. Let go of traditions that feel more like chores and embrace the ones that spark happiness. Simplifying your to-do list can free up time for self-care.
3. Stay Present in the Moment
The holidays can feel like a whirlwind of activities, but try to savor the little moments: the sound of laughter during family gatherings, the glow of twinkling lights, or the joy of watching your kids open their gifts. Practicing mindfulness can help you feel grounded and connected during the busiest times.
4. Treat Yourself
Self-care doesn’t have to mean grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference. Coming off of a weekend seeing our very own University of Colorado athlete, Travis Hunter, win the Heisman trophy, it only seems fitting to use a quote from Coach Prime. "When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you play well." While most of us aren't professional athletes, the idea holds true for you as well. When you look and feel good, you're able to show up as the best version of yourself and maybe even have the energy to make this holiday season even a sprinkle more magical.
Treat yourself to something that brings you joy—a cozy new sweater, a quiet afternoon for yourself, or even better, a piece of jewelry that makes you feel beautiful. A permanent jewelry piece can be a subtle yet powerful daily reminder to prioritize yourself and your well-being, while also effortlessly helping you feel put together, even when time escapes you and you just don't have enough time to get yourself ready in the morning as you were hoping for. (Tell me I'm not the only one who is always running behind!)
5. Delegate and Ask for Help When You Need It
You don’t have to do everything alone. Ask your family to pitch in with holiday prep, whether it’s wrapping gifts, decorating, or preparing meals. Sharing the load doesn’t take away from the magic; it creates opportunities for togetherness and shared memories.
6. Reconnect with What Matters Most
At its heart, the holiday season is about love, connection, and gratitude. When you focus on what’s most meaningful, it becomes easier to let go of perfectionism and prioritize your well-being. Remember, the people who love you don’t need a perfect holiday—they just need *you*.
Make Yourself a Priority This Season
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential, and it benefits everyone around you. When you nurture your own well-being, you show up as the best version of yourself, bringing even more love, energy, and joy into your family’s holiday season. This holiday, give yourself the gift of self-care and watch how it transforms not just your experience, but also the joy you bring to others.
To all of you making magic this season: You’re incredible, and you deserve to feel that same magic within yourself. Take care of you, because you matter—this season and always.
