Christmas is this season filled with anticipation and excitement especially when you have young kids at home, they are talking about Christmas months before it’s here. If your kids are like mine they even have Christmas music playing in the summer! It’s a such a magical time of year filled with fun family traditions, exciting activities, delicious food and celebrations.
But for moms, this time of year also comes with long to-do lists, high expectations, and a packed calendar. If you’re juggling gift shopping, meal planning, decorating, and keeping up with your family’s holiday traditions, stress can creep in. To truly enjoy this season, it’s so important to prioritize your well-being.
So here are some practical self-care tips to help busy moms survive—and thrive—through the holidays:
1. Schedule “Me Time” (Even if It’s Just 15 Minutes!)
Carve out a small window of time each day just for yourself. Use this time to:
- Read a passage of scripture.
- (⭐️If your looking for a way to stay close to God as you go through the holiday season Grab my Christmas Journal Devotional download 🎄 https://momplicity.blog/product/christmas-devotional-journal/ )
- Meditate or practice deep breathing.
- Sip on your favorite tea or coffee while journaling.
- Enjoy a quick walk outside to clear your mind and feel refreshed.
🍃I encourage you to think of it as a non-negotiable appointment in your calendar, I find it helpful to write it in my planner so I don’t get busy and forget… and even write what it is your going to do with that “me time” so you can be efficient and not let it go because you don’t know what you want to do.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
Mommas I’m giving you permission to Let go of perfection! Your home doesn’t have to look like a Pinterest board, and you don’t need to attend every holiday event. Prioritize what truly matters to your family and say “no” to anything that feels overwhelming. Simplify traditions to reduce unnecessary stress.
I loved sending out that cute family photo Christmas card but it just became another thing on my long to do list and the pressure of getting the pictures taken and the cards made and mailed. It was too much stress and pressure and I always seemed to be behind on it so I just decided it was time to let that tradition go.
3. Delegate and Share Responsibilities
You don’t have to do everything alone. I know this is hard especially for the perfectionist mom “that’s me”, so trust me I get it. But, Im learning it’s ok to let go of our own expectations and involve our partner, kids, or other family members in tasks like decorating, wrapping gifts, or preparing meals and baking treats. Make it fun by turning chores into family bonding moments by playing your favorite Christmas music or movie while you work, or even turn the task into a little friendly family competition.
4. Stay Active to Reduce Stress
Exercise is one of the best stress relievers, even during the holidays. I know the to do list is long and it’s easy to say we don’t have the time to exercise. I encourage you to take the time, again it doesn’t have to be long, if you only have 15-20 min that’s ok it will still benefit your mental and physical health.
Some quick and simple ideas ….
- Do a quick at home workout or a short walk outside
- Turn your holiday errands into an active outing with a brisk walk around the mall or parking farther down in the parking lot to add more steps into your shopping trip
- Join your kids for a snowball fight, a fun sledding or ice skating outing, or even a dance session to your favorite holiday music.
5. Keep Meals Simple and Nourishing
While holiday treats are tempting, prioritize meals that fuel your energy. Plan easy, healthy meals during the week to balance out indulgences at parties. Meal prep when possible to save time, and keep healthy snacks on hand to avoid hunger-induced stress. If you want to save your waistline this Christmas, a little tip I love is eating some protein and veggies before heading to a holiday gathering so I’m full and less tempted to indulge in too much unhealthy food. It’s all about balance in my perspective, we shouldn’t deprive ourselves because we all know holidays mean delicious food and Christmas treats but just being smart with our choices when it comes to holiday food is helpful.
6. Practice Gratitude
Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Gratitude can shift your mindset, reduce stress, and help you focus on the positives of the season. Keep a gratitude journal, or make it a family practice during dinner to share one thing everyone is thankful for.
7. Limit Social Media Comparison
Scrolling through perfectly curated holiday posts can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Remind yourself that social media often showcases highlights, not reality. If you notice comparison creeping in, take a step back and shift your focus to your family’s holiday traditions that bring you peace and joy.
8. Plan for Downtime
The holidays can be go-go-go, but downtime is so important. Block out time in your schedule for quiet family nights. Whether it’s watching a Christmas movie in pajamas or reading holiday books with your kids, these moments recharge your spirit. For us we do Friday night devotion nights. We read our devotional and then snuggle up and watch a movie and have popcorn together, we all cherish this time together and look forward to it every week!
9. Get Enough Sleep
I know, I know, I’m saying this and your thinking I have too much to do and so little time! Sleep often takes a backseat during the holidays, but it’s truly essential for managing stress. Aim for 7-8 hours a night. Create a calming bedtime routine, such as dimming the lights, diffusing a soothing essential oil, or reading a book before bed.
10. Lean on Your Support System
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone you trust. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a fellow mom, sharing your feelings can be incredibly freeing. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
11. Focus on What Brings You Joy
Finally, remember the why of the season. Let go of obligations that don’t spark joy, and immerse yourself in the moments that do. Whether it’s seeing your kids’ faces light up driving around looking at Christmas lights or baking Christmas treats together these moments are what make the season magical.
🍃By taking steps to care for yourself, you’ll be better equipped to spread holiday cheer to your loved ones. Remember, a happy and calm mom sets the tone for a joyful Christmas!