Christmas season can be rough for some people. While it can be merry and bright for people, for some, the holidays can be hard to get through. Whatever situation or circumstance or feelings you may be going through right now, know that you are not alone.

In efforts to get through the holiday season, whether you’re struggling mentally or just need a break from the busyness of the Christmas season, it’s important to take care of yourself. In between making the Christmas lists, baking ALL of the Christmas treats, and spending time with friends and family, these are just 10 things to do to care for yourself this holiday season.

Watch a funny Christmas movie.

There are TONS of Christmas movies that you can watch this season, but when I’m feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, I love a good laugh. Some of my favorite funny Christmas movies are Christmas with the Kranks, The Santa Clause, Elf, and most recently in 2021, Single All The Way. Find a good, funny, light-hearted Christmas movie that will guaranteed make you laugh!

Read a good book.

Doesn’t even have to be a holiday book! I’ve talked about reading as my own self-care on the blog before, so it’s no secret that it’s one of my favorite self-care rituals. Something about getting into a good book when you’re feeling anxious just lifts my spirits. Some of my recommendations are: anything by Jasmine Guillory, Sarah J. Maas, and Christina Lauren, specifically A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory, and Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren. Check out my #bookstagram for more recs! (Oh, and turn on a cozy ambience video from YouTube—I promise you, you won’t regret it.)

Treat yourself.

When you’re feeling down, why not treat yourself to a spa day? Go with friends, or go with yourself. Go get a manicure, pedicure, facial, massage, literally anything to make your spirits brighter. These are just stress-busters and will have you feeling better and refreshed.

Take a yoga class.

I was going to say exercise class, but let’s be real, exercising on your holiday break probably isn’t the most fun. That’s why I say take a yoga class! This is guided meditation and will have your muscles more relaxed. This is a great way to unwind after a particularly stressful holiday season.

Bake! Cook a gourmet meal!

Baking and cooking have always relaxed me or gotten my mind off things. This may be stressful to some people, so ignore if you are one of those people, but bake yourself a treat or challenge yourself to cook a meal for you and friends!

Grab lunch with a friend.

Catch up with a friend at lunch. Maybe it’s an old friend and you want to catch up; maybe it’s a new friend and you want to get to know them better. Whoever it may be, community is important and you’ll feel better afterwards.

What are some of your go-to self-care habits that you do? The next time you feel overwhelmed, relax your shoulders and do something that makes you happy or something that you love. The Christmas season is about hope, happiness, and love.