As the holiday season quickly approaches, the whirlwind of events, shopping, and planning can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush, leaving little room to breathe and recharge. But what if, instead of letting the holiday storm sweep you away, you could find moments of calm and peace before it all begins? In this post, we’ll explore simple ways to embrace tranquility amidst the chaos, allowing you to enjoy the season without feeling like you're constantly running on empty. Let’s take a step back and discover how to prepare for the holiday hustle with a peaceful mindset.
Schedule a “Disconnect Day”
Imagine a full day with no screens—no emails, no notifications, and no constant updates. A “Disconnect Day” gives you a break from the digital world and allows you to unwind and refocus. This can be a powerful way to cultivate peace and recharge during the holidays. Here’s how to plan it, enjoy it, and get the most out of it:
Planning Your “Disconnect Day”
Pick a Day in Advance
Choose a day when you’ll have the fewest obligations. It could be a weekend, a day off, or a quieter weekday if possible. If you’re only able to do a partial day, set aside a specific block of time—morning, afternoon, or evening—when screens are off-limits.
Notify Friends and Family
Let people know about your “Disconnect Day” in advance so they’re not surprised if you don’t respond immediately. This will help reduce any worry or the urge to check in with them and let you focus on your offline experience.
Turn Off Notifications Ahead of Time
The night before your disconnect day, turn off notifications for email, social media, and any other apps that might tempt you to check your phone. You could even turn your phone off altogether or place it in another room to avoid the urge to check.
Prepare Any Essentials You’ll Need
If you’re accustomed to using your phone as a clock, for instance, consider using a regular clock for the day or setting reminders if needed. Gather anything you’ll need to enjoy your day offline, such as a good book, art supplies, or a cozy setup for enjoying time outside.
What to Do on Your Disconnect Day
Without screens, you’ll have time to engage in activities that often get sidelined by our digital habits. Here are a few ideas to make the most of this day:
Start Your Day with a Slow Morning
Without the pull of your phone, savor the start of your day with a quiet morning routine. You could make your favorite coffee or tea, sit by a window, or read for a while. Starting slow will set a calm tone for the rest of the day.
Dive into a Good Book
If you’re a reader, take this day to make progress on a book you’ve been meaning to finish—or start a new one! Reading allows for deep relaxation, and you’ll likely enjoy it more when you’re not distracted by notifications.
Reconnect with Nature
Plan a walk or a small outdoor adventure. Fresh air and nature are natural stress relievers, and without a phone to check, you’ll likely notice more about your surroundings—whether it’s the sound of birds, the crunch of leaves, or the way the light changes through the trees.
Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones
Use this time to connect with family or friends without distractions. Have a face-to-face conversation, cook a meal together, or play a board game. Quality time feels richer without the pull of digital distractions, and you may find that these moments feel more memorable and meaningful.
Try a Creative Activity
Whether it’s painting, journaling, baking, or another creative endeavor, spend some time engaging in something that uses your hands and mind in a tactile, focused way. Creativity can be meditative, and without the internet, you’ll have fewer interruptions to your flow.
Tips for Shorter Screen-Free Blocks
If a full day offline feels too challenging, try starting with smaller blocks. Here are a few ideas on how to integrate screen-free time into your routine:
Screen-Free Mornings
Start your day without screens for the first hour. You might use this time for breakfast, light exercise, or setting intentions for the day. Starting screen-free allows you to ease into your morning with intention and less stress.
Afternoon Breaks
Take a screen-free hour in the afternoon. Stepping away from screens during this time can refresh your focus and reduce eye strain. You could use this break to take a walk, meditate, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea.
Evening Wind-Down
Spend the last hour of your evening screen-free. Avoiding screens before bed helps your mind unwind and reduces the blue light exposure that can interfere with sleep. Instead, you could read, write, or enjoy a quiet activity like stretching or deep breathing.
Each of these screen-free periods gives your mind a chance to reset and brings a sense of calm. With regular practice, you might find that these breaks become something you look forward to, helping you feel more present and less overwhelmed by holiday busyness.
Incorporate Daily Breathing Exercises or Meditation
In the hustle of the holiday season, taking even five minutes for mindful breathing or meditation can offer a welcome pause and allow you to reset. This small daily practice is not only calming but can also improve your focus and resilience to stress. Here’s how to integrate these practices into your life, along with tips for making the most of each moment.
1. Try Basic Breathing Techniques for Quick Relief
One simple technique is “box breathing,” which involves inhaling for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for four. Here’s how to get started:
Sit comfortably with your back straight and hands resting on your lap.
Inhale slowly through your nose for four counts, expanding your abdomen as you breathe.
Hold your breath gently for a count of four.
Exhale through your mouth for four counts, letting go of tension.
Repeat this cycle a few times, and you’ll likely notice an immediate sense of calm. This exercise can be done anywhere, making it perfect for those moments when you need a quick reset, like before heading into a gathering or after a long shopping trip.
2. Choose the Best Time of Day for Breathing Exercises
If you’re unable to commit to a long practice, try incorporating breathing exercises at specific times:
In the Morning: Start your day with a clear mind by taking five minutes to breathe deeply. This helps ground you before the day’s busyness takes hold.
Midday Break: Pause in the middle of your day for a few minutes of breathing exercises. This can be a great way to recharge during a lunch break or when you’re transitioning between tasks.
Evening Wind-Down: Practicing breathing exercises before bed can signal your body to unwind and prepare for sleep, reducing any lingering stress or excitement from the day.
3. Explore Meditation Apps for Guided Support
If you’re new to meditation, guided sessions can provide structure and help you build confidence in your practice. Apps like Calm, Headspace, and Insight Timer offer short, beginner-friendly meditations designed for relaxation and stress relief. They also offer themed sessions for managing stress, building gratitude, and easing into sleep.
How to make it a habit: Set aside a few minutes each day at a consistent time—whether it’s first thing in the morning or as part of your bedtime routine. This way, meditation becomes a reliable part of your schedule.
4. Incorporate Breathing into Daily Activities
Sometimes it’s challenging to set aside dedicated time for breathing or meditation, especially during the holiday rush. Instead, try weaving it into daily routines:
While Waiting: Use waiting time—whether you’re in a checkout line, waiting for water to boil, or on hold during a phone call—to do a few cycles of deep breathing.
Transition Moments: Take a mindful breath or two when moving between activities. For example, breathe deeply for a moment before heading into a meeting or after finishing a chore.
Mindful Eating: Begin a meal with a deep breath and a moment of appreciation. This helps you savor your food and feel more present in the moment.
5. Use Breathing Exercises During Stressful Moments
In moments of stress—like when you feel overwhelmed by holiday tasks or a challenging interaction—a quick breathing exercise can help ease tension. Try counting your breaths or even focusing on exhaling slowly. This allows your body to shift into a more relaxed state and can make it easier to approach the situation with a clear mind.
By incorporating these simple breathing and meditation techniques, you can create small pockets of calm during even the busiest days. With regular practice, these moments will start to feel like peaceful rituals that help you move through the holiday season with greater ease and mindfulness.
Enjoy a “Silent Morning” or “Silent Hour”
In the holiday rush, silence can offer a retreat from the noise and constant demands of the season. Creating intentional quiet time—even for just an hour—helps you slow down, recharge, and find clarity. Here’s how to create a meaningful silent period and maximize its calming benefits.
1. Start with a “Silent Morning” Routine
If you’re able to dedicate a full morning to silence, this can set a peaceful tone for your entire day. Here are some simple ways to create a quiet morning:
Wake up a Little Earlier: Setting your alarm even 15-20 minutes earlier than usual gives you a small window of time for uninterrupted silence. Use this time to center yourself before the day begins.
Avoid Digital Distractions: Resist checking your phone or turning on any devices. Instead, try lighting a candle or sitting by a window as the sun rises, letting the natural ambiance set the tone.
Mindfully Savor Your Morning Rituals: Whether it’s sipping on coffee or tea, stretching, or writing in a journal, doing these things quietly lets you experience them fully. Enjoying a simple activity without rushing can be incredibly grounding.
For many, morning is an ideal time to enjoy silence because it’s usually a quieter time before family or holiday activities begin.
2. Incorporate Silence into a Specific Time of Day
If mornings aren’t ideal, consider setting aside a silent hour later in the day when you can still reap the benefits of quiet time. Here are some options:
Afternoon Reset: If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed mid-day, try a “silent lunch” where you avoid conversations and devices. This time could be spent savoring a meal, taking a quiet walk, or reading a few chapters of a book.
Evening Wind-Down: In the evening, dedicate an hour to silence before bed. Dim the lights, turn off screens, and engage in calming activities like a warm bath, stretching, or reading. Silence before bed can help release tension from the day, making it easier to drift into restful sleep.
A midday or evening silent hour can work well if mornings are too hectic, giving you the same sense of calm and clarity.
3. Create a “Quiet Zone” for Regular Silent Breaks
If setting aside a dedicated hour every day feels too challenging, try creating a “quiet zone” at home where you can take a few moments of silence whenever you need it. Here’s how to make it happen:
Designate a Cozy Spot: Set up a small area, such as a chair by a window or a corner with a comfortable seat, as your quiet zone. This will be your place to escape for moments of silence.
Use It Throughout the Day: Take five minutes to retreat to your quiet zone whenever you feel overwhelmed. In this space, you can close your eyes, focus on your breath, or simply sit in stillness. Over time, these mini-breaks add up, giving you a sense of calm even on busier days.
4. Practice “Silent Activities” During Your Quiet Time
For some, sitting in silence may feel unfamiliar. Instead, try incorporating peaceful, non-verbal activities into your quiet time. Here are some ideas:
Mindful Tea or Coffee Drinking: Prepare a warm drink and sip it slowly. Focus on the flavors, the warmth, and the act of drinking without distractions. This mindful practice helps you feel grounded.
Gentle Stretching or Yoga: Stretching or engaging in slow, calming yoga can enhance relaxation and increase body awareness, adding to the calming effects of silence.
Journaling or Writing: If your mind is busy, journaling can help you process thoughts and emotions. Writing quietly, even for a few minutes, can be a therapeutic way to work through holiday stress.
These activities blend well with silence, allowing you to experience calm without the need for total stillness.
5. Set Boundaries for Your Silent Time
To make the most of your “Silent Morning” or “Silent Hour,” let family or housemates know about it in advance. You might hang a small “quiet time” sign or use headphones (even without music) as a gentle cue that you’re enjoying some quiet time. Setting boundaries can help protect your silence from interruptions.
By embracing silence, you’ll discover a sanctuary from the holiday rush and a chance to tune into yourself. Whether it’s a full morning or a shorter silent break, this time will offer a refreshing pause that lets you approach the season with calm and clarity.
Create a “Joy Jar”
The holidays can be busy, and a “Joy Jar” offers a way to capture and focus on the uplifting moments that make this season special. Each slip of paper becomes a tangible reminder of happiness, gratitude, or peace, and at the end of the season, you’ll have a jar full of memories to cherish. Here’s how to get started, along with tips for fitting it into your day even if time is limited.
1. Create Your Joy Jar with Personal Touches
Start by setting up your “Joy Jar” with materials you already have at home or enjoy crafting with. Here’s how to make it special:
Choose a Jar: Pick any jar that you can easily place on a table or counter. A simple mason jar, decorative vase, or even a repurposed container will work.
Decorate It: Add personal touches by decorating your jar. You could paint it, tie a ribbon around the lid, or add holiday stickers. Decorating makes it feel like a seasonal ritual and can serve as a lovely holiday decoration.
Prepare Slips of Paper: Cut colorful paper or use scrap paper for writing down your joyful moments. Consider using festive holiday colors or patterns for a seasonal touch.
Keeping the jar in a visible spot, such as your kitchen counter or living room table, will make it easy to remember and encourage you to add to it throughout the day.
2. Capture Moments of Joy as They Happen
The simplest way to fill your Joy Jar is to capture moments of happiness right as they occur. When something makes you smile, take a quick moment to jot it down:
Write Brief Descriptions: Don’t overthink it—just write a few words or a short sentence about what made you happy. It could be as simple as “sipping hot cocoa while watching the snow fall” or “hearing my favorite holiday song on the radio.”
Include Small, Everyday Moments: Remember that joy doesn’t have to come from grand events. Simple pleasures like a cozy sweater, a warm meal, or a laugh with family all count. These are often the moments that bring the most comfort.
If capturing joy throughout the day feels tricky, keep a small notepad or phone notes app handy. Then, you can transfer these moments to your jar when you have a quiet minute.
3. Dedicate Time at the End of Each Day to Reflect
For a more reflective approach, set aside five minutes at the end of each day to think back on joyful moments. This habit helps you wind down and end each day on a positive note. Here’s how to do it:
Set a Reminder: Create a gentle reminder to prompt you each evening, perhaps when you’re getting ready for bed or settling down after dinner. This reminder can help make adding to the Joy Jar part of your nightly routine.
Reflect on the Day: Think back to anything that brought you joy, peace, or laughter during the day. These could be small moments you might have forgotten, like receiving a warm greeting from a friend or finishing a good book chapter.
This end-of-day ritual is a lovely way to unwind, allowing you to feel grateful for the day’s positive moments.
4. Weekly or Seasonal Reflection
If adding to your Joy Jar daily feels too demanding, try setting aside time at the end of each week. This way, you can reflect on the week’s happiest moments and write a few slips at once.
Choose a Quiet Moment: Pick a relaxing time, like Sunday afternoon or evening, to sit down with your Joy Jar. Reflect on the week as a whole and think about anything that stood out.
Add Seasonal Highlights: You might also want to make special notes for specific holiday events, like a family gathering, a favorite holiday film, or a meaningful tradition.
Reflecting weekly or even just capturing the big highlights allows you to enjoy the same benefits without the pressure of adding daily.
5. Revisit Your Joy Jar at the End of the Season
One of the most rewarding aspects of a Joy Jar is revisiting these memories. At the end of the holiday season, or even during quiet winter days, take time to open your jar and read each slip. This can be a heartwarming experience and a powerful reminder of the moments that brought you happiness and comfort.
Ideas for Revisiting:
Gather with Loved Ones: Share your Joy Jar slips with family or friends, each taking turns to read aloud a memory. It can spark laughter and gratitude, allowing everyone to reflect on the season together.
Make it a New Year’s Tradition: Start the New Year with a positive outlook by reading your joyful moments on New Year’s Day. It’s a wonderful way to carry forward the spirit of gratitude into the coming year.
By embracing a Joy Jar, you’re creating a simple yet powerful way to focus on joy, gratitude, and positive moments during the holidays. Whether you jot down moments daily, weekly, or just capture highlights, your Joy Jar will become a treasured reminder of the season’s warmth and happiness.
Practice Grounding with Nature Walks
Amid the busy holiday season, taking a few minutes each day to step outside and connect with nature can provide an immediate sense of calm and balance. Even a brief break outdoors allows you to escape the usual holiday bustle and immerse yourself in the quiet, grounding presence of the natural world. Here’s how to make the most of these moments and some tips on timing if you can’t dedicate a full day to being outside.
1. Embrace “Micro Walks” Throughout the Day
If your schedule doesn’t allow for extended outdoor time, incorporate “micro walks” into your day. These are quick, purposeful walks you can take in small pockets of time:
Morning Refresh: Step outside for five minutes in the morning, perhaps with a cup of coffee or tea. Stand or walk around your yard or balcony, noticing the morning air and sounds, like birds or rustling leaves. This gentle ritual can help you start your day with clarity and intention.
Midday Reset: During lunch or a work break, step outside for a quick walk around the block. This brief outing can help reenergize you for the rest of the day while giving you a few minutes to decompress.
Evening Unwind: As the day winds down, take a few minutes outside to breathe deeply and reflect. You might stand quietly or walk a short distance, focusing on the calmness of dusk or nightfall, which can help ease you into a restful evening.
Even if each walk is just a few minutes long, these micro breaks can bring a grounding sense of peace and reconnect you with the world around you.
2. Practice “Mindful Noticing” During Nature Breaks
To fully absorb the stress-relieving benefits of nature, try practicing mindful noticing when you’re outside. This technique helps you focus on your surroundings, pulling your attention away from daily stresses and onto the present moment:
Engage Your Senses: As you step outside, take a deep breath and start to tune into what’s around you. Notice the scent of the air—maybe it’s fresh and crisp, or slightly smoky from a nearby fireplace. Observe any colors and textures around you, like the trees, sky, or even frost on the ground.
Listen Carefully: Focus on sounds around you, like birds singing, wind blowing through the trees, or even the distant hum of city life. Paying attention to sounds can be incredibly grounding.
Feel Grounded: Place your feet firmly on the ground, noticing how it feels beneath you. If you’re standing still, bring your attention to the feeling of your body in space, connecting with the earth beneath.
This mindful approach turns even a short outdoor moment into a grounding, meditative experience.
3. Choose Optimal Times to Avoid Crowds and Enjoy Solitude
For a truly calming experience, aim to go outside at times when nature feels more tranquil. Choosing less busy times can make a big difference:
Early Mornings: If you can, head out in the early morning when the world is just waking up. This is often a quieter time, free from hustle and bustle, making it easier to soak in the peace of nature.
Late Evenings: Another option is to go outside at dusk or later in the evening. Nature feels different at these hours, with quieter sounds and a more subdued light, making it an ideal time to unwind.
Choosing these times can make your nature breaks feel even more calming and immersive, giving you a brief yet impactful retreat.
4. Create a Consistent Routine with “Nature Appointments”
If you’re often busy, consider adding “nature appointments” to your schedule. Setting these short, dedicated breaks in your calendar ensures you make time to connect with nature:
Set a Reminder: Add a short, 5-10 minute nature break to your daily calendar or to-do list, ideally at times when you’re likely to be able to step away (like a break between meetings or after lunch).
Stick to It: Treat this nature break like a mini appointment with yourself. Over time, these nature appointments will become a consistent part of your routine, giving you a reliable way to reset during the holidays.
Making a regular habit of stepping outside each day, even for a short time, is a powerful way to center yourself and find peace amidst holiday activities.
5. Make the Most of Weekends with Longer Outings
If your weekdays are full, make weekends your time for longer nature outings. This might mean spending an hour or more at a local park, trail, or even your backyard:
Plan a Nature Walk: Dedicate an hour on the weekend for a nature walk at a local park or nature reserve. Look up nearby trails, or simply take a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood, paying attention to the changing season.
Have a Picnic or Quiet Moment Outdoors: Bring a blanket and warm drink and enjoy a cozy picnic in the park. Bring a book, journal, or just sit quietly and take in the scenery. This slower-paced time in nature can be especially rejuvenating after a busy week.
The holidays can often feel like a whirlwind of activity, but taking even just a few minutes each day to connect with nature helps you maintain balance and mental clarity. With these short, mindful moments outdoors, you’ll find yourself better equipped to enjoy the season with a greater sense of peace.
Indulge in Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy taps into the power of scent to bring tranquility, with certain essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint being particularly effective in reducing stress. Incorporating these scents throughout your day can create a peaceful atmosphere that counters holiday busyness and promotes relaxation.
1. Start Your Morning with a Calming Diffuser Blend
If you’re short on time in the mornings, adding aromatherapy to your routine is still achievable. As you get ready for the day, turn on an essential oil diffuser with calming scents:
Lavender and Peppermint Blend: Try adding a few drops of lavender and peppermint essential oils to a diffuser. Lavender can help reduce anxiety, while peppermint provides a gentle energy boost.
Citrus and Eucalyptus Wake-Up: A blend of eucalyptus and a citrus oil (like lemon or orange) is refreshing and uplifting, helping you start your day on a positive note.
For best results, run the diffuser for around 10-15 minutes. This short, refreshing morning ritual can help ground you before you dive into holiday activities.
2. Add Essential Oils to Your Bath for Evening Relaxation
After a long day, a warm bath with essential oils is a great way to unwind. Choose scents that promote relaxation and help release tension built up throughout the day:
Lavender and Chamomile Bath: Add a few drops of lavender and chamomile oils to your bathwater. These scents work together to soothe your mind and body, making them ideal for evening relaxation.
Eucalyptus Steam Bath: If you prefer showers, add eucalyptus oil to a damp washcloth and place it on the shower floor. The steam will help release the aroma, creating a spa-like experience in your own bathroom.
This end-of-day ritual can help you mentally transition into a more relaxed state, making it easier to wind down for a good night’s sleep.
3. Keep a Scented Cotton Ball or Roll-On Bottle Nearby
If you’re busy and constantly on the go, consider using essential oils in a way that’s portable and convenient:
Essential Oil Roll-On: Make or purchase a roll-on bottle with your favorite blend, like lavender and frankincense for calmness or peppermint and lemon for a refreshing lift. Simply apply it to your wrists or temples when you need a moment of calm.
Cotton Ball or Tissue: Add a few drops of essential oil to a cotton ball or tissue and keep it nearby, like on your desk or in your pocket. In moments of stress, simply inhale the scent to bring yourself back to a relaxed state.
These small, portable aromatherapy tools are great for maintaining a sense of calm wherever you go.
4. Set the Mood with Candles in the Evening
In the evening, lighting a candle with soothing or seasonal scents can create a cozy, peaceful environment. Scented candles are an easy and effective way to enjoy aromatherapy without much effort:
Holiday Scents: Choose candles with holiday-inspired scents like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla. These can evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, bringing comforting holiday memories to mind.
Classic Calming Scents: For pure relaxation, stick with classic calming scents like lavender or sandalwood. Light the candle as you settle in for an evening of reading, cooking, or winding down with family.
Even just 30 minutes with a lit candle can fill your space with a soothing aroma, helping to relieve stress and make your home feel like a retreat.
5. Quick Evening Meditation with Aromatherapy
Combine aromatherapy with a short meditation session at the end of your day. Even a few minutes of deep breathing with calming scents can help you let go of stress:
Focus on Breathing: Place a few drops of lavender or cedarwood oil in your diffuser or on a cotton ball. Find a quiet spot and breathe deeply, focusing on the scent with each inhale. Close your eyes and imagine the scent as a wave of relaxation flowing through you.
Use Meditation Apps with Aromatherapy: Try using apps like Calm or Insight Timer for guided meditations, enhancing the experience by diffusing relaxing scents. These apps offer short sessions that you can fit into your schedule even on busy days.
Making this a nightly ritual can help you cultivate peace and create a relaxing buffer between the hustle of the day and your nighttime rest. Incorporating aromatherapy into your daily routine, even in small doses, can be a powerful way to stay calm and grounded. Choose a time that works best for you—whether it’s morning, mid-day, or evening—and savor these sensory breaks as a way to bring tranquility to your holiday season.
Try a Holiday-Themed Puzzle or Craft
Puzzles and crafts are wonderful ways to create calm in the holiday season. These activities allow you to shift your focus, tap into creativity, and enjoy a peaceful, screen-free moment, either solo or with loved ones. Here’s how to make the most of them, even if you only have a limited time each day.
Holiday-Themed Puzzles for Cozy Evenings
Working on a puzzle is a gradual and satisfying way to unwind, especially in the evenings when you want to disconnect from screens. Set aside a dedicated space, like a coffee table or a small corner, for your puzzle so you can come back to it as time allows. You can even make it a nightly ritual: spending 10–15 minutes on the puzzle each evening helps you build progress without feeling rushed.
Choosing a Puzzle: Look for puzzles that reflect the holiday spirit, like winter scenes, festive illustrations, or classic holiday characters. This makes the experience more seasonal and joyful.
Best Time to Puzzle: Evenings work well, especially when accompanied by a cozy drink or a candle. The gentle focus required for a puzzle can help you wind down before bed.
DIY Craft Kits for Easy, Low-Pressure Creativity
Craft kits are a great option if you want a screen-free activity without needing to gather many supplies or plan extensively. Many kits are designed to be simple, so you can finish a project in just one sitting. You can find holiday-themed kits like DIY ornaments, wreaths, or candle-making sets to add a festive touch to your space.
Finding Kits: Check local craft stores, or browse online for holiday-themed kits that come with everything you need.
Best Time for Crafts: Mid-morning or afternoon can be a good time for these projects. During these hours, you’re less likely to feel rushed, and you can enjoy the process without worrying about finishing by a certain time.
Create a Shared Craft Session with Loved Ones
Bring family or friends into your craft time for a cozy, shared experience. Try projects that everyone can contribute to, like decorating a set of holiday ornaments, making a garland, or putting together a wreath. This can be a fun way to bond without screens and allows each person to express their creativity.
Getting Ready: Set up a workspace, gather supplies in advance, and pick a holiday playlist or background music to create a festive mood. Simple projects like decorating ornaments are perfect for groups, as they allow each person to work at their own pace.
Best Time for Group Crafts: Plan a craft session on a weekend or evening when everyone can join. You could even make it part of a holiday tradition, with seasonal snacks and hot cocoa to enjoy together.
Simple Craft Breaks for Busy Days
If your days are packed but you still want to unwind, keep some simple crafts on hand for quick breaks. For instance, try folding origami, painting small wooden ornaments, or decorating holiday cards. These quick crafts don’t require much setup and allow you to step away from holiday busyness, even if only for a few minutes.
Keeping Supplies Handy: Store a small box of supplies (markers, paint pens, cardstock, or mini ornaments) nearby, so you can easily pick up a craft when you need a break.
Best Time for Quick Crafts: Fit in these mini-crafts whenever you have a few minutes of downtime—like after lunch, during a coffee break, or just before you dive into an evening routine. The short, creative escape will help you recharge.
Puzzles as a Holiday Morning Ritual
For a quieter, mindful start to your day, try working on a puzzle in the morning. Just 5–10 minutes can serve as a grounding, screen-free start to help you enter the holiday spirit peacefully.
Morning Puzzle Time: Place your puzzle near your breakfast area or in a cozy spot where you can spend a few quiet minutes on it before jumping into holiday activities. Pair it with a warm drink to make the moment feel special.
Whether you spend a few minutes or a few hours on puzzles and crafts, these activities provide a relaxing way to escape the holiday rush. Enjoy these quiet moments, savor the creativity, and allow yourself to immerse in a peaceful holiday tradition that helps you connect with the present.
Practice “One-Minute” Mini-Cleanses
Taking quick, intentional “One-Minute Mini-Cleanses” can be incredibly effective during a busy holiday season. These brief pauses allow you to center yourself, releasing stress in small, manageable doses so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. Even if you can’t take long breaks, a few of these mini-cleanses scattered throughout the day can make a big difference.
Morning Reset Before the Day Begins
Start your day with a mini-cleansing moment before you dive into holiday plans. Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and allow your body to relax as you set an intention for calm and presence. Visualize something positive that you’re looking forward to or imagine a peaceful scene to ground yourself.
Best Time for a Morning Mini-Cleanse: Right after you wake up or as you’re sipping your morning coffee. A one-minute pause can help you feel calm and ready for the day.
Between Tasks or Errands
During busy days, it's easy to jump from one activity to the next without a break, which can create mounting tension. Use a mini-cleanse as a mental reset between tasks or errands. Take a deep breath, visualize yourself finishing each task with ease, and release any tension you feel building up.
How to Do It: Close your eyes, breathe in slowly, and let go of any tightness in your shoulders or jaw. Picture yourself calm and capable as you go about your next task.
Midday Mini-Cleanses for a Recharge
A quick midday reset can help sustain your energy and focus. Around lunchtime or during a break, find a quiet spot and let your mind drift to a soothing place. This can help you avoid that midday slump and recharge mentally.
Calming Visualization Ideas: Imagine a place that makes you feel happy and peaceful, like a favorite vacation spot or a cozy holiday memory. Picture the scene vividly—smells, sounds, and textures—to fully immerse yourself.
While Waiting in Line or at Appointments
Holiday errands often involve waiting—whether you’re in line at the store or waiting at the doctor’s office. Instead of reaching for your phone, take that time for a mini-cleansing breath. You can relax in those few moments and use visualization to disconnect from any stress around you.
Mini-Cleanse Tip: Focus on slowing down your breath, relax your shoulders, and picture yourself surrounded by calming energy. Imagine your stress melting away with each breath.
Pre-Bedtime Wind-Down
Taking a mini-cleansing break before bed is a great way to let go of the day’s stress and prepare for a restful night. As you sit in bed or while brushing your teeth, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and let any tension drain from your body.
End-of-Day Visualizations: Picture a warm, soothing place, like a cozy fireplace or a serene forest. Focus on feeling safe, comfortable, and relaxed, and let this scene stay in your mind as you fall asleep.
Transition Points at Home
If you’re switching from one activity to another at home—like finishing work and preparing dinner or moving from decorating to wrapping gifts—a quick pause can help smooth the transition. These moments offer a chance to reset your mood and approach the next task with fresh energy.
How to Use These Moments: Stop, take a deep breath, and envision yourself transitioning calmly into the next activity. Focus on staying present, enjoying each step, and letting go of any rush or anxiety.
Using these one-minute mini-cleanses throughout your day helps you keep holiday stress in check. They’re simple but impactful ways to reset, so you can remain focused and fully present. By cultivating these short moments of calm, you’ll notice a greater sense of ease that carries you through the holiday season.
Reconnect with the Present Using Sensory Awareness
Using sensory grounding to calm your mind during the holidays can be a wonderfully simple way to reset and reduce anxiety. Sensory grounding helps you focus on your immediate surroundings by tuning into your senses, giving your mind a break from worries and stress. Even just a few moments of this practice can make a big difference, and you don’t need to set aside a full day to benefit from it—try integrating it whenever you feel scattered or overwhelmed.
Morning Start: Engage with Your Surroundings as You Wake Up
Begin the day by immersing yourself in the sensory details of your morning routine. Feel the softness of your sheets, notice the natural light filtering through your window, or focus on the scent of your morning coffee or tea. Let these simple sensations bring you fully into the present as you ease into the day.
Idea: Wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, savoring its warmth, and take a few moments to feel gratitude for the comfort it brings. This helps set a calm, grounded tone before the day's activities begin.
Midday Sensory Break During Busy Moments
In the midst of holiday errands or household tasks, take a pause to ground yourself. If you’re in a busy place like a shopping center, focus on the texture of your clothing, the scent of any nearby holiday treats, or even the sounds around you. Bringing attention to your senses, even in bustling environments, can make you feel more present and calm.
How to Practice: Stand still, close your eyes (if you’re in a safe space), and take three slow, deep breaths. Concentrate on each sense: What do you hear? What do you smell? Can you feel the texture of your scarf or the cool air on your skin? This small check-in can be a lifesaver when holiday stress hits.
Mindful Mealtime Moment
Take a sensory grounding break at meals, fully engaging with the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food. Notice the colors of your meal, savor each bite, and allow yourself to enjoy the experience fully. This not only helps with digestion but also serves as a gentle, calming ritual in your day.
Tip for Mealtime: Put your fork down between bites, taking a moment to enjoy the taste and texture. Breathe slowly and savor the experience, letting each bite ground you in the present moment.
Evening Wind-Down with Sensory Focus
As you prepare for bed, incorporate sensory grounding to calm your mind and unwind from the day’s stresses. This could include wrapping up in a warm blanket, dimming the lights, and lighting a favorite candle. Focus on the soft glow of the candle, the warmth of the blanket, and the quietness of the space.
Ways to Practice: Run your hand over the blanket, noting its texture and warmth, or close your eyes and let yourself enjoy the soothing scent of lavender, chamomile, or your favorite candle. Let each sensation ground you in the peacefulness of the moment.
Mindful Walk or Fresh Air Moment
Take a short, mindful walk outside, focusing on nature’s details. Notice the coolness of the air, the sound of crunching leaves underfoot, or the smell of fresh pine. These sensory details have a grounding effect that brings you back to the present and provides relief from mental clutter.
Tips for Nature Grounding: Even a few minutes outside can be enough. Listen to the sounds around you—the chirping of birds, the wind through the trees. Let each sound and scent draw you further into the present moment, bringing clarity and calm.
Holiday-Themed Sensory Experiences
Use holiday scents, textures, and sights to help ground yourself. Warm your hands around a hot mug of cocoa, focus on the aroma of baking cookies, or enjoy the flicker of holiday lights. These seasonal sensations can be a soothing way to bring yourself back to the present during busy days.
Ideas for Holiday Grounding: Hold a mug and notice its warmth, sip cocoa slowly and enjoy its rich taste, or gaze at twinkling lights, taking in their colors and patterns. Embrace these moments as your own mini retreats.
Best Times for Sensory Grounding: You can practice sensory grounding at any point in the day when stress or anxiety surfaces. Morning grounding sets a calm tone for the day, while midday grounding helps you recharge. Evening grounding before bed is particularly helpful to unwind. Incorporating sensory grounding whenever you notice holiday stress creeping in can make you feel more centered, mindful, and ready to face each moment with greater peace.
Host a “Slowdown Dinner” with Friends or Family
A “Slowdown Dinner” is a beautiful way to honor the holiday season’s focus on connection and joy, without the rush that often accompanies holiday gatherings. Creating a relaxed, phone-free space to share a meal can lead to meaningful interactions and cherished memories. Here are some tips on how to organize a Slowdown Dinner and ideas for making it an intentional, fulfilling experience—even if you can’t dedicate a full evening.
How to Host a Slowdown Dinner
Choose a Simple, Comforting Menu: Instead of stressing over an elaborate spread, choose one or two cozy, satisfying dishes that can be prepared ahead of time. A big pot of soup, a casserole, or even a pasta bake creates a warm, comforting atmosphere without needing last-minute attention.
Tip: Try a seasonal dish like butternut squash soup, a classic lasagna, or a warm salad with roasted winter vegetables. Adding fresh bread or a simple dessert like baked apples can make the meal feel complete with minimal effort.
Create a Cozy, Inviting Atmosphere: Decorate the dining area with soft lighting, like candles or fairy lights, and use comfortable seating arrangements that bring people close together. A few festive touches—a simple centerpiece of pinecones, greenery, or candles—can set the mood without overwhelming the table.
Best Time to Do This: Plan your dinner for early evening, around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., so everyone can relax and settle into a calm atmosphere without feeling rushed to leave. If an evening dinner isn’t possible, consider a weekend brunch or an afternoon tea instead.
Encourage a Screen-Free Space: Ask guests to leave their phones in another room or set them to silent mode. Let everyone know that the focus of the evening is on real connection. To gently introduce this, you could create a “phone basket” at the entrance, where guests can leave their devices for the duration of the meal.
Idea: Set the tone by sharing that this dinner is a chance to truly connect, without distractions. Mention how refreshing it feels to have undisturbed conversations, and make it fun by adding a small sign next to the basket that says, “Disconnect to Reconnect.”
Introduce Gratitude as Part of the Meal: Invite each person to share something they’re grateful for or a favorite memory from the past year. This simple ritual adds a heartfelt touch and creates a sense of togetherness and appreciation.
When to Include This: Before starting the meal, let everyone take a turn sharing a brief gratitude or memory. Alternatively, encourage guests to share as you move through the meal, between courses or during dessert.
Focus on Slowing Down Each Part of the Meal: Serve the meal in courses, if possible, and encourage guests to savor each bite. This pacing naturally slows the evening down, allowing for extended conversations and more time to enjoy each other’s company.
Idea: Offer a light appetizer (like a cheese board or nuts) to nibble on as guests arrive, then serve soup or salad as a first course before moving to the main. End the meal with dessert and coffee or tea, extending the cozy atmosphere into the evening.
Set Aside Time for Laughter and Conversation: After dinner, consider bringing out a favorite board game, storytelling prompts, or a deck of cards. Sharing a fun, relaxed activity keeps the evening flowing and creates even more moments of laughter and bonding.
For a Shorter Gathering: If you’re hosting a lunch or brunch instead, keep the activities simple and brief—perhaps a quick round of a card game or a few minutes of sharing favorite holiday stories.
Make Cleanup Part of the Togetherness: Instead of cleaning up alone, invite guests to help, keeping the conversation going while clearing dishes or packing leftovers. This can make even the end of the evening feel like a shared experience rather than a chore.
Best Time to Wrap Up: Aim to conclude the evening on a warm note, letting guests head home before they start to feel tired. If possible, offer small takeaway treats, like cookies or hot cocoa mix, to remind them of the evening’s warmth and connection.
The beauty of a Slowdown Dinner is that it doesn’t need to be extravagant or time-consuming. By focusing on simplicity, gratitude, and being fully present, you’ll create a meaningful gathering that allows everyone to feel truly connected. Whether it’s a full evening affair or a shorter meal during the day, this practice reminds us to embrace the joy of togetherness—a perfect pause in the midst of the holiday hustle.
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