**Self-Care During the Holidays**

  
The holiday season can be a difficult and stressful time for many. That's why it's so important to stop and listen to your own needs, too. Here are some self-care ideas for December and beyond. #SeasonOfSelfCare  
Take a walk outside  
Write a love letter to yourself  
Write about something you are grateful for in your life (it can be a person, place, or thing)  
Create a happy playlist and a coping playlist  
Treat yourself to a favorite snack  
Watch your favorite movie  
Forgive someone  
Forgive yourself  
Say thank you to someone who has helped you recently  
Create a DIY self-care kit of things that make you feel better  
Take your medication on time  
Take a new fitness class at the gym (yoga, Zumba, etc.)  
Plan a lunch date with someone you haven’t seen in a while  
Pamper yourself with an at-home spa day  
Take a day off from social media and the Internet  
Reach out to your support system  
Cuddle with your pets or a friend’s pet  
Take the time to stop, stand and stretch for 2 minutes  
Wake up a little earlier and enjoy your a morning cup of tea or coffee before the morning rush  
Take a hot shower or bath  
Take yourself out to dinner  
Volunteer  
Start that one project you’ve been contemplating for a while  
Sit with your emotions, and allow yourself to feel and accept them. It’s okay to laugh, cry, just feel whatever you’re feeling with no apologies!  
Cook a favorite meal from scratch  
Take a 5-minute break in your day  
Compliment someone (and yourself, too!)  
Give yourself permission to say no  
De-clutter your mind: write down 5 things that are bothering you, and then literally throw them away  
Donate 3 pieces of clothing that you no longer wear  
Take the time to find 5 beautiful things during your daily routine  
Take a mental health day from school, work, etc.  
Take a nap  
Reach out to the Lifeline