Practising Self-Care During the Festive Season šš§āāļøš«
- Nicolas Piccolo-Leeser
- 9 hours ago
- 3 min read
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Self Care in December Why This Time of Year Feels Overwhelming and How You Can Stay Grounded
šššÆļø The Christmas season is often portrayed as a time of peace and reflection. In reality, many people experience the weeks leading up to the holidays as particularly intense. The days are short, schedules are full and the desire to create perfect celebrations creates emotional pressure. With gifts to organise, year end deadlines to meet and social commitments to manage, very little space remains for personal wellbeing.
This contrast between the idyllic image of the festive season and the actual experience can lead to stress and emotional fatigue. For this reason, self care in December is not a luxury. It is essential.
Why December feels emotionally demanding
In December, internal and external expectations accumulate quickly. Many people strive to meet the needs of others while maintaining a sense of harmony. This creates a natural tension between personal wellbeing and the expectations of family, friends and the workplace.
The wish for joyful celebrations increases internal pressure even further. At the same time, there is often little room for rest, reflection or moments of quiet. The weeks can feel intense and crowded, leaving few opportunities to recharge. This affects both emotional stability and physical energy.
Self care offers a protective and balancing effect during this time.
Ways to strengthen self care in December
Acknowledge your own needs
It is easy to lose sight of your needs during the festive season. Taking a moment each day to ask what truly feels good helps to maintain emotional balance. The focus is on what nurtures your wellbeing rather than what is expected.
Setting boundaries and saying no
Saying no is an act of self respect. It protects your energy and allows you to shape interactions intentionally. Especially in December, setting clear priorities helps prevent overload and supports inner calm.
Creating small rituals for stability
Rituals provide structure and emotional grounding. This can be an evening tea, a short moment of silence in the morning, soft candlelight or a quiet walk after work. These gentle routines reduce stress and create a sense of stability during a busy period.
Conscious breathing moments
Breathing exercises are simple and highly effective. A few minutes of calm breathing can reduce stress, clear the mind and support nervous system regulation. These moments can be integrated into any day with ease.
Practising gratitude
Gratitude shifts the focus to positive and nourishing aspects of life. A small daily note or thought about something meaningful creates emotional resilience and enhances wellbeing. Even a few seconds of gratitude can change the tone of the day.
December as an invitation to inner balance
Despite its challenges, December offers an opportunity for greater self awareness. It encourages you to slow down, recognise your limits and align with what truly matters. Those who treat themselves with care can experience this time as meaningful rather than overwhelming.
Self care opens space for authenticity, calm and connection. šš§āāļøš
Conclusion and invitation to your first session
šššÆļø Self care in December is a key foundation for wellbeing and emotional strength. Caring for yourself allows you to be present for others in a healthy way.
If you would like support, if you want to establish new routines or if you feel that professional guidance would be valuable during this intense season, I would be delighted to welcome you for a first mental health session.
Merry Christmas Nicolas
