Why is it that “the most wonderful time of the year” usually feels more like “the most stressful time of the year” for many moms? If you’re like me, December means not only Christmas carols and ice skating, but also sleep deprivation and endless shopping lists.
As we enter the home stretch of the holiday craziness, taking a minute (really, only a minute) to take care of yourself can help you and your family enjoy this season a bit more. Here are just a few of my favorite ways to de-stress in an instant:
Make a cup of tea. Something about the aroma, the warmth, and the sound of the kettle calling out to me from the stovetop has such a calming effect on me.
Take a shower. If you can’t squeeze in time for a shower, just wash your face and brush your teeth. Let’s face it – motherhood can be heavy labor at times! Getting cleaned up with a scented body wash or face wash helps me feel better, and, in turn, I act more kindly and calmly towards my kids.
Say a prayer. We all know someone in our lives who could use an extra prayer right about now. Taking a pause in my day to think about and pray for someone else makes me realize that although my life is busy, I am very lucky for the blessings I have.
Go outside. This is my go-to for just about anything: crying kids, sick kids, a messy house, too much noise. Taking in the Great Outdoors for even a minute or two is like pressing the “reset” button.
Sing. When kids sing, they sing loud, dance around, wave their arms and twirl in circles. If I’m stressed, taking a minute to stop everything I’m doing to sing a Christmas song with my two little ones helps all of us feel better.
Order dinner. I love to cook, but I give myself a “pass” on making dinner when there’s just too much else on my plate.
Go to bed. When the kids are in bed, follow suit. Even if there’s laundry to be done or presents to wrap – leave it for tomorrow. Sometimes I find myself so strung up on the smallest details that, after a good night’s sleep, seem insignificant.
And when all else fails, have a glass of wine.
Because it’s Christmastime, and you deserve it!
