Self-care during busy times like the holidays!
I have definitely been on a self-care journey. It has gone up and down over the years - from neglect to complete embrace and nurturing. I still kick myself when I miss the same gym or yoga class over and over, even though I've been meaning to go for weeks. As a single mom and business owner, I don't get many breaks or true me-time. Even in my "quiet" alone moments, I'm usually still busy folding laundry, cooking, cleaning, or doing something else that needs attention.
As much as I love what I do and feel blessed and grateful to fulfill my purpose and calling in life, I am also looking forward to two weeks off for Christmas. I look forward to building a tent in the yoga room with my son, watching Christmas movies together and baking (already started with oatmeal cookies and banana bread, yum!). I'm also excited for playing games together, having cozy days, and seeing family and friends. These slower moments remind me why holiday self-care (and self-care anytime!) matters so much.
Yesterday I attended a Mindset Webinar where we talked about self-care and how to prevent burnout when life gets too busy. When I moaned about not having enough time, the speaker reminded me that self-care doesn't have to be grand gestures like a week-long vacation or a full day at the spa. It can show up in micro self-care practices woven throughout the day. She gave examples like working outside for a change of scenery or putting a heat pack on an aching back while at your desk.
She also reminded me that self care is not a luxury, it's a necessity. And it truly is. Especially as parents and helping professionals, she pointed out self-care increases our capacity. We always hear the phrase 'You can't pour from an empty cup'. It's true. Even taking a breath between meetings can refill your cup. Those mini transition moments really do help to support nervous system regulation.
So in the midst of all the holiday busy-ness, what can we do? Here are eight micro-movements for self care that I found helpful this week:
- Water. Drink water first thing in the morning and throughout the day. I always have it on my desk and sip during sessions. Hydration is one of the simplest forms of stress management, particularly during the holidays.
- Legs Up the Wall. This restorative move calms the nervous system and reduces swelling in the feet and legs. It's a great somatic self-care exercise that supports grounding and slowing down.
- Smoothie Freeze. I make a protein shake and freeze it in long rectangular ice blocks. If I don't have time to make lunch, I just throw one in a glass with soy milk and a big steel straw and sip it during a meeting or session. This is a helpful option for busy moms and anyone who needs quick nutrition.
- Tidy One Surface. Surfaces fill up quickly - especially with kids in the house. Choose just one surface to tidy and dust. My son and I did this for his room this week. It was a disaster, and we're getting ready for our housewarming/Christmas party this weekend :)
- Journal Dump. My thoughts can race, especially when I'm overwhelmed with all the things that need to get done. This week I wrote everything out that was on my mind, and it helped me to organize and strategize. If you believe in a higher power, you can also ask for guidance when overwhelmed. After journalling and praying, I felt further pulled towards the idea of "Help the Helpers," which inspired me to start a monthly self-care workshop for helping professionals, starting Jan 2!
- Read Before Bed. My son and I have been reading side-by-side before bed lately. I still read to him, but lately we're also enjoying each reading our own books while we are beside each other. It's a calming ritual that improves sleep and helps us to unwind before bed.
- Move Your Body. I love moving my body and praying in the morning - even if it's just 10 minutes. I miss it when I don't do it, and I feel the difference throughout the rest of my day. There are a lot of quick morning stretch routines on YouTube for inspiration. A simple stretch routine helps with mental clarity, holiday stress relief, and overall wellness.
- Self Massage. After a shower and before getting into bed, I usually massage my feet with lotion. It takes just a moment, but is nice and soothing for tired feet. I once heard if we take care of our feet, our feet will take care of us. I think that's true.
If you are a helping professional feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, we have a lunch-hour hybrid self-care workshop where we will explore mindfulness and somatic exercises to help slow things down and refill your cup. It runs the first Friday of every month, and each month features different content. Learn more here: