Why Self-Care is the Real Holiday Prep
Yes, ”It’s TIME!” But before you start wrapping presents, hanging garland, and RSVPing “yes” to every holiday gathering, take a deep breath. The most important thing you can do to prepare for the holidays might not be checking off your shopping list—it’s checking in with yourself. Because maybe the most important “time” you should be focused on this holiday season is “me time.”
The Real Effects of Holiday Burnout
Between shopping, cooking, traveling, and juggling end-of-year deadlines, the holidays can leave even the most festive among us feeling more frazzled than fulfilled. According to a 2023 study by the American Psychological Association, 38% of people experience increased stress during the holidays, with women reporting higher levels of fatigue and pressure to “make it all perfect.” Add in disrupted sleep, sugary treats, and less time to recharge, and it’s easy to see why burnout happens.
Your skin feels it, too. Stress hormones like cortisol can trigger inflammation, dullness, and breakouts—hardly the glow you want for those holiday photos.
But here’s the good news: the fix is fun, relaxing, and totally doable. It starts with a little more you time.
Make Self-Care Your Seasonal Strategy
Instead of treating self-care like an afterthought, think of it as your secret weapon for enjoying the season. Here’s how to keep your peace, your glow, and your joy intact:
1. Keep your skincare rituals sacred.
This is not the time to skip your normal skincare routine—your skin thrives on consistency. Stay loyal to your daily regimen, and take it up a notch with extra moments of pampering. Schedule a professional treatment or indulge in a hydrating mask once a week. These small pauses become powerful reminders that you matter, too.
2. Move your body—gently.
You don’t have to abandon your workouts, but you can shift them to something that soothes your soul. Trade bootcamp for zen yoga, slow stretching, or a walk with friends. The goal isn’t to burn calories—it’s to burn off stress.
3. Create “white space” on your calendar.
Give yourself permission to say no. Leave a few blank spaces in your week for rest, reflection, or spontaneous joy. Take a bubble bath, listen to your favorite playlist, or cozy up and watch your favorite holiday movie. You’ll show up to every gathering more refreshed—and genuinely more happy.
4. Connect without the pressure.
The best memories aren’t the most elaborate—they’re the most heartfelt. Focus on togetherness, laughter, and being present. When you’re calm and centered, everyone around you feels it too.
5. Share the glow.
Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s contagious. This year, spread the love by giving others a little “me time,” too. Think mini skincare kits, gift cards for spa or yoga sessions, or professional skincare treatments that help your loved ones unwind and reset. These thoughtful, feel-good gifts remind everyone that they deserve care, calm, and confidence—because the best kind of glow is the one that’s shared.