Life/ Self-care during the holiday season

As a woman, I know the pressure we put on ourselves during the holiday season to make everything just right for everybody. You have the in- laws coming, the grandkids, the out of town guests and not to mention those in your own household to tend to. You have the lists, the food to cook, the food to go shopping for and the dreams to make come true. Sounds like Superwoman to me and by the end of the holiday season, your are just glad to see it all go away. Wouldn't you love to enjoy yourself and your family? You deserve to enjoy your holidays and love for yourself and you family, well I'm sharing some tips to make this holiday season less challenging and more enjoyable and healthy for you and them.

• Delegate  It is okay to ask for help, and enlist those in your household in the holiday self-care brigade. I know you like things done a certain way and nobody can do it like you☺but question is do you want to enjoy memories or cringe at the thought of the holidays? If everyone chips in it take the pressure off of one person. Come up with a list and delegate different tasks to different family members. Remember, do you want perfection or healthy and enjoyable? Remember the key is to create memories and not stress.

• Create to-do lists Make a list of people you are getting gifts for along with a budget and gift choice. When you create a gift list you are less likely to overspend and forget people. Make a holiday menu and shopping list accordingly and even consider enlisting family to bring a dish on your list. You can even enlist family that may be gourmet-challenged with bringing drinks, paper goods or store bought desserts. This go's hand and hand with delegating, if you have a list, it's easy to have someone help pick up things you need.

• Schedule your shopping trips Don't try to get it all done in one day, pace yourself. Part of the reason we feel overwhelmed is because we just try to do too much. Schedule grocery shopping, gift shopping, and errands on different days over a period of time that does not overwhelm you. Think ahead and use apps for the store or online store adds to plan in advance. Keep in mind self-care shouldn't stop because it's the Holidays.

• Eat as healthy as Possible I am a firm believer in everything in moderation. Food prep helps around this time of year because of lack of attention and time to prepare healthy foods. Here are few great food prep ideas to keep you on track.

1. Chop up fresh fruits and vegetables and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator
2.  Smoothie freezer bags recipe here
3. Keep ready made snacks available Examples: yogurt, fresh fruit, and vegetables
4. Eat healthy whenever possible
5. Drink plenty of water

• Keep up with exercise regimen  I t is important to stay on track with your workout regimen to keep your energy up and weight gain at a minimum. I know for me it can be challenging to stay on track around this time of year due to weather and all the holiday fun. Here are some great ways to stay on track.

1. 10-minute workout to keep you on track here
2. Take a long walk
3. Park as far away as possible from your destination and walk
4. Take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible
5.  Yoga routine to destress and maintain peace here

All these things help to make the holidays easier to enjoy and less stressful. Remember to rest and take moments to recuperate and of course prayer and meditation. Take breaks and me time is great this time a year. Remember to enjoy your family and friends and make memories that will last a lifetime. Share your self-care techniques below and Happy Holidays!