Staying Joyful and Calm Throughout December
Isn’t the holiday season a magical time? The twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and cozy evenings by the fire can make this time of year feel special. But let’s be honest—between shopping, decorating, cooking, and socialising, it can also feel like an overwhelming juggling act. How can we embrace the magic without letting the mayhem take over?
Here are some simple but powerful tips to help you stay joyful and stress-free this holiday season:
1. Set Intentional Priorities
The holidays often come with a long to-do list, but not everything on it is essential. Take a moment to reflect: What truly matters to me this season? Maybe it’s spending quality time with loved ones or creating moments of peace for yourself. Once you’re clear on your priorities, it’s easier to say no to things that don’t align with them.
2. Simplify Gift Giving
Instead of stressing over finding the perfect gift for everyone, focus on meaningful options that are easy to plan. Handwritten letters, homemade treats, or experience-based gifts like a coffee date or a movie night can be just as special—if not more so. It’s the thought and love behind the gesture that counts, not the price tag.
3. Practise Gratitude
Amid the hustle and bustle, take time to reflect on the good things in your life. Grab a journal or even a piece of paper and write down three things you’re grateful for each day. I love using my Elysian Wellbeing Gratitude Journal during this time—it’s such a grounding practice. Gratitude not only shifts your focus but also brings a sense of calm and perspective.
4. Maintain Self-Care
It’s easy to let self-care slide during the holidays, but taking care of yourself will help you show up fully for others. Prioritise the basics: stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and make time for movement—even a 10-minute stretch can work wonders. When things feel overwhelming, pause, take a deep breath, and remind yourself it’s okay to slow down.
5. Say No with Love
This time of year often comes with countless invitations and obligations, which can be exhausting. Give yourself permission to say no when you need to, and do so with kindness. For example: “Thank you for thinking of me, but I need some time to recharge this evening. Let’s catch up soon!” People will understand, and your well-being will thank you.
6. Create Moments of Joy
Sometimes the smallest things bring the most joy. Light a candle, listen to your favourite holiday music, or spend a few minutes sipping hot chocolate in silence. These tiny rituals can become anchors of peace in a busy season.
7. Be Present
The holidays are fleeting, and the best way to truly enjoy them is to be present in the moment. Whether you’re laughing with friends, wrapping presents, or watching snowflakes fall, take it all in. A simple mindfulness practice like focusing on your breath or noticing the sights, sounds, and smells around you can help you savour the magic.
My Secret to a Stress-Free Holiday
Last year, I found myself caught in the whirlwind of trying to make everything “perfect.” One evening, feeling completely drained, I decided to take a step back. I lit a candle, opened my gratitude journal, and wrote about the little moments that had truly brought me joy that day—a kind word from a friend, the warmth of a hug, the comforting smell of cinnamon lingering in the air. It was a powerful reminder that the magic of the season isn’t found in the big, elaborate gestures but in the small, heartfelt ones we often overlook.
As my husband and I prepare to welcome our first child next year, this lesson feels more important than ever. The holidays can easily pull us into the chaos of societal expectations—raise your hand if you’ve ever felt the pressure! But at its heart, this season should be about honouring what feels meaningful for you and your family. Whether it’s simplifying traditions or creating new ones, give yourself permission to celebrate in a way that fills you with joy and peace. After all, isn’t that what the season is all about?
Your Turn
This holiday season, I challenge you to take one small step toward joy and peace. Maybe it’s writing a gratitude list, taking a walk in nature, or saying no to something that feels like too much.
And I’d love to hear from you—what’s your favourite way to stay joyful and stress-free during the holidays? Share your tips in the comments or on social media and tag me @_ElysianWellbeing!
Let’s embrace the magic together 🎄✨
