The festive season can be chaotic and the busiest time of the year for most of us and although it is a lovely time catching up with friends and family, we must make sure to check in with ourseleves and do things to fill our cup. 1. Read a book Read a book - something that feeds your soul.. whether that be fiction, poetry, true crime, self-help. Immerse yourself for half an hour each day in your chosen book and switch off from technology for a while. 2. Bake something Baking can be extremely theraputic. I love putting on some music while I cook or bake and enjoy the process. It keeps you in the present moment while all your senses are engaged. Gift your creations to someone you love, or enjoy it for yourself! 3. Do some Yoga or guided meditation Meditation and Yoga is the ultimate form of self care. Practicing these 2 forms of self care creates mental clarity, centres your attention and relieves stress - a perfect way to wind down and reflect on the past year. 4. Take a long bath Taking a long bath with a face & hair mask with your favourite candle and cup of tea (or wine) is such a great way to wind down. It calms the mind and relaxes the body, relieving any tension you may have. 5. Journal and reflect on the past year As the year wraps up, I love to journal & reflect on the past year. Taking a walk down memory lane of the highs and lows for the year, is always a good way to close the chapture and welcome the New Year with open arms. 6. Spend time outdoors If there's one thing on the top of my list of Self Care, it is spending time in nature. it has been proven that being outdoors increases dopamine production (the happy hormone) and can reduce anxiety and depression. Make a goal to get outdoors every morning and I can guarantee you will have a better day. 7. Declutter your home If you're someone who loathes cleaning & decluttering, you may be wondering why this is a form of self care. It's true that a lot of clutter can cause stress - I have always believed that a cluttered space is a cluttered mind, and what a better time to go and declutter your home and space for the New Year ahead. 8. Go for a long walk in nature Going for a nice long walk outdoors is a perfect way to fill your cup. Pop in your airpods and listen to your favourite song or podcast, or just take in the sounds of nature around you. The holiday season is usually filled with lots of family and friends which is always loads of fun, but going for a walk and having that little bit of alone time while getting the endorphins going is a perfect way to start or end your day. 9. Coffee dates with friends I feel like this one goes without saying.. Coffee dates with friends. It's no doubt time gets away on us.. and the weeks roll into the months and then before you know it the year is over! Taking the time to check in with your friends and loved ones and catching up for a coffee (or whatever you drink) is the best way to fill your cup. If you try any of these simple self-care ideas over the holiday period I’d love to see. Tag me on Instagram @hannah.kate.home so I can cheer you on!
