Holiday Self-Care

It may be called the “season of joy,” but the holidays can actually be a pretty stressful time! There are expectations, extra events, and financial strain. In fact, the American Psychological Association says 38% of people have higher stress levels during the holidays. That means that self-care during this time of year is even more important! It can make a huge difference on how you feel and are able to cope with the holiday bustle and long winter months.

Physical activity, good nutrition, and adequate sleep are all important, but there are so many other great self-care tips out there. The following organizations offer some easy, practical tips specifically for holiday self-care:

Mayo Clinic

Mental Health First Aid

Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

What’s your favorite self-care activity or tip? Comment below!

Another great resource is offered by the Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation. It’s our program called EveryWoman’s Journal! Research has shown journaling to have many positive health benefits, including lowering stress and the risk for anxiety and depression. By attending an EveryWoman’s Journaling workshop, you will learn writing techniques to help you take care of your mental well-being. Past participants have said it helps them focus on what’s really important. One participant recently reached out and said that journaling made her more aware of her physical, mental, and emotional health. “I can write whatever I feel like – and this relieves tension, anger, and whatever creeps into life that is bugging me. Journaling is a personal outlet – no one’s feelings are ever hurt and my opinions are on paper for me to look at & think about … I enjoy this writing everyday – it feels almost cleansing!”

There are a variety of EveryWoman’s Journal workshops coming up in the next few months. Check our Events Calendar for a workshop near you! Bonus – they are always FREE!

For a sneak peek at the journaling exercises, here is an example from the monthly exercises we send out to past workshop attendees (another great perk of coming to an EveryWoman’s Journal workshop!).

Remember to give yourself permission this holiday season to take care of YOU! Happy and healthy holidays!