Hey mom, are you tired? Anxious? Exhausted? With everything you deal with daily, from family and work to getting ready for the holidays, Xmas seems like one more thing on a very, very long list. How can you avoid getting too stressed to enjoy getting gifts for your loved ones at Christmas sales with 2022 things to do? This list of truths moms needs to know to relax this Christmas can help you finally enjoy the season.
Truths: Moms, your work will never be done.
From the day that you find out that you are expecting until the kids leave home to go to university, you work hard to do your best. But, it’s likely that you wear yourself out in the process.
You might cut back on sleep to fit everything in or skip some meals to save time. It could be that exercise isn’t happening regularly either.
But somehow in all of this busyness, you know that you need time to relax and unwind. It could be as simple as breathing in lavender aromatherapy oils. So, what are other ways to take care of yourself during the holidays, which are likely the most stressful time of the year?
Value yourself as much as you value others.
First, you need to delegate. I know it might be hard to trust someone else with all you have to do, but sometimes you need to step back.
That might mean letting your significant other take the lead on baby duty for a few nights or letting grandma let the kids over for a week. Do you have teens that can help around the house too?
If so, teach them independence by having them cook dinner once a week. Or ask them to help with errands and have a part in house cleaning.
The world will continue to revolve without you jumping in to save the day.
Single moms have to balance bills and childcare. Many times, you feel alone, with no options. When Christmas comes, the planning, cooking, family celebrations, and, admittedly, drama, may all be too much.
Learn to say “NO.” That simple little word will help you avoid overcommitting and stressing yourself out. You will then have much-needed time for yourself, and make sure you don’t fill the free time with doing things for others. It’s about you, whether it is 30 minutes or longer.
If you honestly don’t have the time to prepare this year’s Christmas dinner, don’t have time to wrap all the gifts, or the thought of going to one more holiday recital drives you batty, then say “NO.” Those who care about you will respect that, and it’ll get easier to embrace these truths moms when you do them more.
You need to recharge so you can conquer tomorrow!
Finally, you need to find things that make you happy, even when it seems impossible to relax. It doesn’t have to be complicated either.
We’d all love to take a faraway vacation on a desert island and drink Mai Tais. Be more realistic, though.
Start with simple things you can enjoy each day. I like to sing (badly).
You and your little one might turn up the Christmas music as loud as possible and fill your living room with the world’s most out-of-tune rendition of White Christmas you’ve ever heard. Maybe you want to take a long uninterrupted bath instead.
Or, take an hour to read your favorite novel. What is important is to take that precious time for yourself. Yes, even at Christmas.
Mom, your life might be crazy right now, but you need to slow down. Take a deep breath.
Enjoy the simple things in life. Care about yourself as much as you care about your family.
Embrace the truths, moms
When you feel overwhelmed, call a friend, drink a cup of hot cocoa, or curl up with your favorite holiday novel. Do what brings you relaxation, which may not be the same for someone else.
One last thing. Be kind to yourself this Christmas.
What are some other truths moms need to know this holiday season?
Yes! We all need to slow down and focus on what matters, especially this year. It’s surprising that our kids don’t care about most of the stuff we obsess over!
Good words of guidance! We all need to destress as much as possible right now!
Exactly! Thanks Dorothy