Pour yourself a rum and eggnog.
It’s the season of cold and quiet. Of coziness and comfort. The nights are long, and you need something to lighten these dark months that are so often fraught with expectation and heavy with obligation—we’re thinking hot baths, warm chunky knit blankets, and—dare we say—time for yourself.
We’re going to repeat that. Time for yourself. Now let it sink in—and while you’re at it, make that eggnog a double.
Self-care is one of the most powerful rituals we know. It nourishes, replenishes, and promotes creativity and positivity—two things that we consider to be top priorities. Self-care is something we’re all guilty of forgetting in the months leading up to Christmas and the new year, yet it’s something we all desperately need.
You’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times, but we’re going to say it again (we’re doing that a lot, aren’t we?), you simply cannot pour from an empty cup—which is why we’re encouraging you to push pause. To take a moment out of your busy schedule, ignore the weight of unanswered questions and obligatory invitations, and spend some time in your own company connecting to yourself.
“Self-care means giving yourself permission to pause.”
– Cecilia Tran
Sometimes self-care is cleaning your closet, putting everything in its place and leaning into the joy of organizing your surroundings. Other times, it’s embracing your love of cooking and testing out a new recipe to share with the people you love, or just reading a book you enjoy, glass of wine in hand. We’ve found that self-care looks different for everyone, but our personal favourites revolve around acts that bring a deep sense of satisfaction and ease.
The goal:
Carve out time for yourself and indulge in acts of self-care. Feel replenished and ready to take on these busy months, and motivated to try something new. Remember to let yourself have these moments without guilt.
Our prescription—our recipe for relaxation if you will—is this: start small, with cozy socks and a cup of coffee and work up to the bigger things. Find a solitary spot in your home, go for a walk in the crisp air, or just close your door. A quiet mind is a catalyst for change, reflection, and goal setting—all the things you need to take on the busyness of your life and thrive.
A place to start:
- Prepare a meal—and eat it!
- Dance and connect to your more playful side
- Break a sweat
- Make a list and start crossing things off
- Spend time with someone who inspires you
- Get some fresh air
- Pop some popcorn and watch a movie
- Organize your environment
- Get creative
Do what works for you, and remember, this is not a one-and-done kind of deal. You have to make self-care a sacred ritual to see the benefits. So start today; take a guilt-free hour and do something just for you and reflect on how it makes you feel.
Our guess? You’re going to feel invigorated. So, what are you waiting for?