The holiday season often feels like a whirlwind of activity—shopping, cooking, decorating, hosting, and going to parties! While these moments can bring joy, the nonstop hustle can leave little time to pause and truly savor the magic of the season. It’s easy to feel the pressure to do it all.
But I think I’ve found a solution: creating intentional pauses to breathe, reflect, and fully experience the holidays. Building in downtime has become essential for me to find balance and truly enjoy the season without getting overwhelmed (and trust me, I can get overwhelmed!).
Here are my personal tips for carving out space to recharge:
1. Embrace Intentional Rest
Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Treat relaxation like any other important commitment by scheduling downtime in your calendar. I like to think of rest as “an appointment with myself.” Whether it’s a quiet morning with your favorite drink, a midday nap, reading a book, or an uninterrupted movie night, protecting these moments prevents burnout and restores your energy.
2. Simplify with Purpose
Perfection is overrated, and picture-perfect moments often feel more like pressure. Streamline traditions that feel stressful rather than joyful, and allow space for authentic connections. Simplify your decorations, gift exchanges, or holiday meals—it won’t diminish the magic; it will amplify your ability to be fully present and enjoy the season.
3. Cultivate Mindful Moments
Transform everyday holiday activities into opportunities for mindfulness. Savor the rich aroma of freshly baked cookies, listen to the genuine laughter of loved ones, take a quiet walk under twinkling holiday lights, or simply sit and soak in a cozy evening. These small, intentional pauses can serve as personal sanctuaries of peace amidst the busyness.
4. Honor Your Energy
Flexibility is your ally during the holidays. If you wake up feeling tired or drained, give yourself permission to scale back. It’s okay to reschedule or decline events if you’re not feeling up to it. Your well-being matters more than maintaining a packed calendar. Listen to your body, and honor your need for rest and recovery.
5. Prioritize Restoration
Think about what truly recharges you. Is it quiet time alone, a creative hobby, or an evening with close friends? Lately, I’ve found joy in visiting museum exhibits—they’ve become a restorative escape for me. Whatever fills your cup, make time for it weekly to maintain your holiday rhythm. These moments ensure you’re not just surviving the season but thriving in it.
Carving out time to recharge isn’t indulgent—it’s self-care. By protecting your energy and embracing moments of calm, you’ll show up as your most present, joyful self. This season, let’s not just get through the holidays—let’s savor them. 💛
As a licensed Clinical Behavioral Therapist and Intuitive Eating Counselor, I’m here to help you integrate these practices into your life. If you're interested in working with me, feel free to reach out at rachel@livehealthynyc.com