21 Days of Healthy Holiday Habits--Take Time for You!

 Welcome back to another day in the healthy holiday series!  This next habit is one that can be quite challenging for some people, not just during the holidays but the rest of the year, as well.  Today I am talking about taking time out for yourself.  This means taking a little bit of time each day or at least each week to do something that you really enjoy.

Too many of us get totally caught up in the hustle and bustle to just accomplish the basic tasks of every day life.  We stay busy at work, then if you have children they need care and attention when you get home.  If you are on top of one of my previous tips, you are trying to squeeze in some exercise more days than not and trying to prepare most of your food at home.  Then this time of year there are multitudes of holiday parties and other activities.  We all usually spend more time with extended family, which has many benefits but can also be stressful.

In the midst of all of this, I encourage you to try to find what brings you joy separate from all of that.  It may sound selfish, but sometimes you may need to say "no" in order to preserve time for yourself.  I know many adults who have absolutely no hobbies.  That generally means they have neglected to take the time to cultivate a practice they really find pleasure in.  You do not have to pick a traditional hobby, but finding something that does require time and practice will help you make it a habit.

I am an introvert, so I do not function very well if I do not take some alone time every few days to recharge my batteries.  Not surprisingly, I love to sit with a good book in a quiet space.  I also love to get some time out in nature.  Sometimes running by myself is a great way to recharge if I happen upon a calming route.  My boyfriend paints and creates art.  My sister has thankfully taken up knitting, so she'll carry on my grandmother's legacy.  I have a client who loves listening to podcasts.  You may enjoy music lessons or joining an adult volleyball league.  It could be as simple as a nightly bubble bath with the door locked so no one bothers you.

You may try a few things until you happen upon something that works for you.  Everyone is unique in their wants and needs, and you are allowed to change your mind at different phases in life, too.  The big thing here is just to carve a small space in your busy schedule for you! :)