With Christmas just around the corner and Chinese New Year on the horizon, you might be a little busier as you prepare for the festive season. Don’t get us wrong- we love party szn! But we also know that it can be a stressful time.
It’s easy to get lost in the festivities, so here are four ways to ground yourself and unwind.
1. Set boundaries for yourself
Source: @emmazeck_
The holidays can feel like an excuse to go all out- with your time, money and energy. It can be fun to let loose and go wild, but keep it within your means! This means to be strict with who you spend time with and where you invest your energy into.
A self-boundary can look like setting a bedtime; a time where even if you’re not sleeping, you’re taking space for you. It can also be to distance yourself from activities that don’t leave you feeling refreshed, even if it means some FOMO. You know yourself best, so plan accordingly!
2. Set boundaries for others
Source: @blessthemessy
Let’s face it- some people leave you feeling better than others. Instead of gritting your teeth through a difficult family gathering, or merely tolerating friends that you don’t see eye to eye with, draw the lines you need to protect your energy.
Some people choose to lessen contact with people who aren’t healthy for them. But if that’s not an option for you, learn to tell people that you will not be tolerating negative attitudes. For instance, if you have a friend who takes more energy than they give, a good line to have in your back pocket is “I’m sorry, but I don’t have the capacity for this right now”.
3. Have self-care sessions
Source: @thepresentpsychologist
In a busy festive month, it can feel like there’s no room to breathe. Take space for yourself to practice self-care, whether that’s an hour or a day of tending to yourself. Self-care can look like anything from meditation to a solo sweat session.
Self-care can sound like extra work in a season that doesn’t seem to slow down. Take the time to understand what nourishes your spirit best. What works for some people might not work for you!
4. Check in with yourself
Source: Living&LovingLife
How are you, really? For some, the festive season can be an emotional time. Processing your emotions as you go through them is like cleaning a room. Cleaning it as you go is easier than chucking it in a closet and being overwhelmed later on.
Journaling, leaning into a supportive community or even therapy are all great ways to connect with yourself and your emotions.
Have fun, party safe and take care of yourselves this festive season, LIVLOLA fam!
