Self-Care Amid the Holiday Hustle and 10 Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Wellbeing
- Jan Johnson
- Nov 19
- 4 min read
At this time of year, we naturally think of others; our family and close friends are foremost in our minds. We want to make the festive period a happy time, buying gifts, cooking food, entertaining, visiting, partying…. The list seems endless and can often be daunting. We can be swept along on a tidal wave of commitment, obligated to attend every event, party and meal. It can also feel like we must put on a happy face, exuding positive energy even though we may feel quite the opposite. This period can be exhausting on so many fronts, not to mention the normal day-to-day aspects of work and family life. During this hectic time our own self-care can be all but forgotten. When we are busy it is tempting to let go of our own needs and the things that are important for our health and well-being. I have clients who maintain regular reflexology sessions throughout the year until December when they struggle to fit it in. It is now more than at any other time when they need its calming effects to alleviate stress and aid restful sleep.
Practicing self-care is not a selfish act
It is important to note that practicing self-care is not a selfish act. If you are feeling as good as you can be then those around you will feel the benefit too! One of the biggest acts of self-care we can give ourselves is letting go of age-old festive traditions. The caveat here is that if these rituals genuinely make you happy then definitely don’t change a thing! However, doing what you’ve always done without a thought can create unnecessary constraints and stress. This may be the time to break free of these bonds and create new and exciting experiences for yourself and your family.
The festive season brings out the people-pleaser within us and we can find ourselves completely over-obliging, saying yes to every invitation and request. Further liberation can be gained by saying the magic word, NO. Saying NO can be scary and it comes with feelings of hurting someone’s feelings, being unpopular or being judged. Set firm personal boundaries by clarifying the events and obligations that are important to you and politely decline those that make you feel more stressed or unhappy.
While it may seem obvious, self-care practices like finding moments of calm are frequently ignored over the holiday season. Regular walks in nature, listening to music, meditation etc. all help to anchor us to the shore as the festive wave threatens to pull us towards the flow. This Christmas, set your boundaries and priorities, break free of age-old rituals, and find your inner peace and calm.
Enhance your self-care routine and simplify gift-giving with these 10 wellbeing gift ideas!
Take some of the stress out of your Christmas shopping with these 10 ideas for a thoughtful way to show your loved ones that you care. They come in many forms from the traditional gift-wrapped products to experiences, and can be an individual gift or bought as a combined box of healthy delights.
Complementary therapy voucher – I couldn’t do a wellness gift guide without mentioning reflexology! An opportunity to allow the body and mind to relax completely. Reflexology promotes natural healing, improves sleep, low mood and relieves stress and anxiety. For more information about the gift vouchers I offer, please visit www.JanJohnsonReflexology.co.uk/gift-vouchers Choose a complementary therapy that your recipient would like – reiki, aromatherapy massage, Indian head massage…. Whatever your choice, most therapists offer vouchers.
Spa day – Another perfect way to relax and unwind. Many spas are located within luxury hotels so could be included in a mini-break.
Mindfulness app subscription – There are many amazing apps to choose from offering guided meditations and mindfulness tools to help sleep and stress. Great self-help guides on your phone whenever you need it.
House plants – support a healthy home and are proven to reduce stress levels, improve mood and reduce blood pressure. They improve air quality and have the benefit of also looking good!
Bath products – If your loved one enjoys a long soak at the end of the day, then some gorgeous bath salts or oils could be the perfect gift.
Candles – make a lovely calming gift. Scented with essential oils such as lavender are also wonderful for promoting wellbeing.
Nature – Getting outside into green spaces and breathing fresh air is vital for wellbeing. Gifts that encourage interaction with nature may be a membership of the Wildlife Trust or National Trust, walking route books and maps, binoculars, outdoor gear… the list is endless.
Gardening gifts – Also on the outdoor theme. Anyone with a garden knows the that the process of nurturing plants and watching them grow improves your mood. Gardens keep you fit, connect you directly to wildlife, and they are a delight for the senses.
Fitness gifts – We all know that keeping fit is good for our wellbeing. Why not buy a voucher for classes such as yoga, pilates or even dance. Give a gym membership, exercise or cycling equipment. Plenty of scope to tailor to individual likes here.
Affirmation cards – are used to ease stress, boost self-confidence and self-esteem. They can uplift and support, harnessing the power of positive thinking.
Wishing you peace and joy!
