Taking Time for Yourself During the Holidays: Why It Matters and How to Do It
- Pearl Polito
- Dec 8, 2025
- 2 min read
The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. But for many people, it can also bring stress, exhaustion, and pressure to meet expectations, both from others and from ourselves. If you’ve ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed this time of year, you’re not alone.
One of the most powerful things you can do for your well-being during the holidays is also one of the simplest, take time for yourself. This isn’t selfish, it’s essential.
Why Taking Time for Yourself Matters
The holidays tend to amplify everything. Your emotions, your responsibilities, your to-do lists are all effected. Slowing down allows your nervous system to reset, your mind to breathe, and your emotions to settle. When you intentionally carve out time for yourself, you:
Reduce stress and overwhelm
Reconnect with your own needs
Set healthier boundaries with others
Show up more fully to the moments that truly matter
Taking time for yourself is not about avoiding people or obligations, it’s about staying grounded so you can move through the season with clarity, presence, and peace.
Simple Ways to Take Time for Yourself
You don’t need a full day or an elaborate ritual. Even small moments of rest can make a difference.
Here are a few ideas:
1. Create a Quick Daily Check-In
Ask yourself:
How am I feeling right now?
What do I need today?
Where can I give myself a moment of ease?
What do I feel in my body?
What does my body need today?
Sometimes just acknowledging your needs can shift your whole day.
2. Schedule “Pause” Moments
Just like you schedule gatherings and errands, schedule intentional breaks:
A quiet cup of coffee in the morning
Ten minutes of stretching
A short walk outside
A few minutes of deep breathing
These small pauses protect your energy.
3. Set Gentle Boundaries
It’s okay to say:
“I won’t be able to make it this year.”
“I need a bit of downtime before we head out.”
“I can help, but only with one thing (state what the one thing is?).”
Boundaries are not walls; they are doorways to healthier connections.
4. Do Something That Nourishes You
Choose one thing each week that feels restorative, such as:
Reading a book
Taking a long shower or bath
Listening to music you love
Crafting, cooking, or any hobby that brings you joy
Nourishment looks different for everyone. Find what works for you.
5. Give Yourself Permission to Feel
The holidays can stir up complex emotions such as grief, loneliness, nostalgia, or stress. Allowing yourself to feel what comes up, without judgment, is a form of self-care in itself. Taking time for yourself isn’t about escaping the holidays, it’s about making space for your well-being within them. When you honor your needs, you create room for genuine connection, meaningful moments, and a more balanced season.
You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to slow down. And you are absolutely allowed to take care of yourself during the holidays.
Reference:
Comments