12 Days of Self-Care for Christmas
As the end of this season nears and the events pile up, the list of to-dos lengthens, and the stressors and triggers add up. What are you doing to remain true to yourself this holiday season?
How can you make sure your needs are still being met and that you are allowing space for your own happiness during a time that can quickly become all about everyone else and stomp all over your heart and soul?
For the next twelve days, let’s take some time – just a little bit each day – to approach each moment with purpose and protection of our own well-being during the Christmas season.
Follow along as we post a new prompt from Womanhood Unwrapped here and on our Instagram for the next twelve days leading up to Christmas day.
On the First Day of Christmas
December 14th
Take yourself out to lunch, coffee, a walk, or a cocktail alone.
No one else is required. No planning. No obligation. Just you – taking 30-40 minutes to relax, finish your list, and savor something beautiful about a simple moment with coffee (or whatever) alone.
Looking for a great coffee-related gift for yourself or someone else?
Here’s my favorite Pourover Coffee Maker from Primula. And I absolutely LOVE this functional coffee mixed pack from Four Sigmatic, as well as the Four Sigmatic Balance Functional Creamer and Think Functional Creamer.
On the Second Day of Christmas
December 15th
Take the time to plan ahead.
Whether it's writing yourself an email as you sip your coffee, scribbling out a list as you wait in line, or taking a leisurely moment to really think about it, this is the time to plan ahead for what's to come in the next two weeks.
Need a planning tool to keep you accountable?
Attract what your heart desires with this awesome Law of Attraction Planner.
On the THIRD Day of Christmas
December 16th
Say “no” to something or someone.
Time is precious. And the time around the holidays can either be overridden with stress and obligations or balanced with things you love to do as well. Remember that sometimes, saying “yes” to something means saying “no” to yourself. Say “no” to something today that isn’t necessary and doesn’t serve you.
It’s hard to say “no,” I get it. Daily journaling can help keep your mindset in track.
Looking for the right journal? This Self Love Workbook for Women could help you!
On the Fourth Day of Christmas
December 17th
Choose something fun and whimsical today.
You could watch your favorite Christmas movie or drive through a lights show. You could go visit Santa and tell him what’s on your list or take your kiddos to do the same. Or maybe you could just make some cookies and sit down with a book to enjoy them. Whatever it is, make sure it feels joyful, not stressful.
On the Fifth Day of Christmas
December 18th
Share your feelings.
The holidays can bring up a lot for many of us. Whether it’s crazy family dynamics, the loss of a family member, depression, or anxiety, just know that it’s normal and okay NOT to feel all the cheer. Today, call a friend (or therapist) — the one who listens and understands your inner soul. Meet them for a quick chat to share and release some of the inevitable feelings and buildup of the season. I promise you’ll feel lighter afterward.
On the sixth Day of Christmas
December 19th
Make a big mess!
Drag out the wrapping paper, make those Christmas cookies, and throw flour all over the place; allow things to be messy today, with the knowledge that it will all go back in its place and be back to normal by the time it needs to be.
I LOVE making Christmas cookies every year. Here are a couple of my favorite things when it comes to making a big, amazing cookie mess!
On the SEVENTH Day of Christmas
December 20th
Go on a date.
It’s time to enjoy. It’s time to celebrate your year, your month, and your ability to navigate the crazy, messy life we all live. Grab your girlfriends, your bestie, and your honey, and go out for a fun excursion or meal. There is a ton of craziness this time of year, but there are also tons of magical places and ways to settle into the joy of the season. So, go ahead! Enjoy it.
On the Eighth Day of Christmas
December 21st
Do something outdoors.
Yes, there are a million things to do. And yes, your list keeps getting longer, but sometimes, if you take a moment to recharge your batteries, something magical happens, and suddenly, the list doesn’t seem that long. The tasks get checked off. Vitamin D is your superpower today! Get outside for a run, walk, hike, or whatever you can spare; just do it.
On the Ninth Day of Christmas
December 22nd
Let go, and let be.
Today is the moment to let go of the things that didn’t get done and let it be okay the way it is. There are only so many things that can get done, and inevitably something will not. It’s okay! You’re an amazing person. Look at all you’ve accomplished this month. Let that be enough.
On the Tenth Day of Christmas
December 23rd
Ask for help.
You cannot do it all yourself. It’s not possible. Everyone needs people to support them, and now is the time to ask for the help you need so that you, too, can enjoy the moment!
It’s not selfish; it’s self-care.
On the Eleventh Day of Christmas
December 24th
Focus on gratitude.
You did it! You made it to this day, this point. All is ready (and if it’s not, that’s okay too)!
Maybe you have to travel today. Maybe you’re hosting or going to the in-laws. Maybe you’re alone. Or maybe you’re taking this time to just be with your family, your kiddos your spouse. No matter what, there is a lot to be grateful about. Take a few moments to sit down and write a gratitude list. Yourself will thank you for it.
On the Twelfth Day of Christmas
December 25th
Treat yourself!
Merry Christmas to you, and we’re sending you all of the love, joy, and thankfulness we can muster. Today is not the day to skimp, and Scrooge. Today is the day to treat yourself and those around you to the happiness of Christmas Day.
May you be safe.
May you be loved.
May you find joy today.
Looking for last-minute gifts for the women on your list?
We’ve got you covered! Check out our holiday gift guide from Womanhood Unwrapped. Specially curated for the women in your life.
From fashion to health and wellness, our gift guide holds the best last-minute gift ideas for your bestie, your mom, your daughter, or your boss this holiday season. 🎄🤍
