The holiday season is often a time of connection, joy and giving. But amidst festivities, sometimes you forget to take care of yourself.

By practicing self-compassion and allowing yourself a few moments to breathe, you can transform the holidays from a sometimes tiring, stressful time, to one filled with more laughter, hope and love. Use the holiday-themed self-care practices below from the experts at SupportLinc, your NFDA member assistance program, to relax and recharge.

Get cozy.

Naps by the fireplace, warm blankets and scented candles are all relaxing ways to enjoy the holiday season. In between events and activities, be sure to take a few moments for yourself to get cozy and release feelings of warmth and happiness.

Bake seasonal treats.

Baking is an excellent way to channel stress into a productive and fun activity. Whether you prefer making holiday cookies or casseroles, or cooking a whole feast for your loved ones, baking can unleash your creativity and reduce stress. The comforting smells and familiar routine of baking can induce feelings of calm and nostalgia, and consuming food you love can improve your mood.

Have a holiday movie night.

Sometimes, the best way to decompress at the end of a long day is to get lost in an exciting movie. Get in the spirit of the season by picking a holiday-themed flick. You can watch with loved ones or even put a movie on while doing chores to help make them more fun.

Find a holiday hobby.

Participating in a favorite holiday hobby can help make the season more fun when you feel bogged down with obligations. Ice skating, caroling, charity work and decorating are just a few examples of activities you can enjoy to stay active, meet new people and elevate your spirits.

Buy yourself a gift.

Finally, the holidays are a season of gift-giving, and this means treating yourself to a gift too. Celebrate yourself with a small gift and acknowledge that you deserve kindness as much as everyone else.

Don’t let holidays become the holidaze. By making self-care a priority, you might find you have more energy to enjoy all the fun activities the season has to offer.

About SupportLinc

NFDA has partnered with SupportLinc to offer a member assistance program. This confidential support service is available 24/7, 365 days per year at no charge to NFDA members and their immediate family members (e.g., spouse, children). All requests for information and assistance are confidential and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and include:  

• In-the-moment support and short-term counseling by phone, web, text or mobile app with a licensed clinician Members and their immediate family can also receive up to three in-person or video counseling sessions each year.
• Digital support group sessions hosted by licensed counselors 
• Legal consultation 
• Referrals for a variety of service providers (e.g., child or elder care, adoption, pet care, home repair, education, and housing needs)
• Financial consultation and planning 
• A website and app full of resources 
• And more

Learn more at www.nfda.org/SupportLinc.