The Best Present of All – CHC Experts’ Self-Care Strategies for the Holiday Season

The holidays can be a stressful time of year. These helpful tips from CHC experts will help you stay mentally healthy and present during the holiday season.

Pro Tips for a Less Stressful Holiday Season

• Simplify, slow down, and be intentional. Limit commitments and relax while still doing the things that are most meaningful.
• Create boundaries for yourself and feel comfortable upholding them.
• Keep up with sleep hygiene.
• Set aside specific times to connect with people, even for brief check-ins.
• Donate to a charity of interest to your child(ren) to emphasize that getting isn’t everything.
• Find ways to stay connected with extended family.
• Take a few deep breaths for gratitude, stress relief, etc.
• Slow down. Move with intention. Walk more slowly, talk more slowly, eat more slowly, etc.
• Set realistic expectations of self and others.
• Prioritize self-care and mindfulness to stay in the moment.
• Decrease pressure by allowing space to get things “wrong.” It’s OK to forget a gift, sleep too late, burn the chicken, feel angry, etc.
• Let go of perfection. “Good enough” is good enough.
• Be open to experiencing new things, sights and discoveries.
• Incorporate small moments of play.
• Try a brand new activity: visit a new place, try a new recipe, talk to a new neighbor, etc. Be mindful and pay attention as you go.
• Decide to do “less” with purpose instead of spreading yourself too thin.
• Find joy in simple pleasures.

Would you like your own copy of these helpful tips? Download this infographic as a PDF.

CHC is here for you. A screening can help you determine if you or someone you care about should contact a mental health professional. Care Coordinators can arrange a free 30-minute Care Consultation so you can explore options with an expert. Call or email us at 650.688.3625 or careteam@testing.chconline.org to set up an initial Consultation appointment.