7 Steps to Sleigh Your Self-Care Game This Holiday Season
Navigating Self-Care and Boundaries Over the Holidays: Prioritizing Movement, Joy, and Preparation
The holidays are a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but let’s face it, they can also be overwhelming. Between the family gatherings, travel plans, endless shopping lists, and social obligations, it’s easy to lose sight of your own well-being. But here’s the twist: instead of framing this season around all the things you should say "no" to, let’s flip the narrative. What are the things you should be saying "yes" to?
This year, prioritize movement, joy, and preparation to create a holiday season that energizes you rather than drains you. Here’s how to navigate self-care and boundaries over the holidays in a way that leaves you glowing and grounded.
1. Say Yes to Movement—Every Day
Movement is magic. It’s what keeps our energy high, our mindset positive, and our bodies feeling strong and capable. The holidays might throw your typical workout routine off course, but that’s no excuse to skip movement altogether.
This is where my Burn by Rebecca Louise app comes to the rescue. Inside, we’ve got a special Holiday De-Hustle Series designed to keep you moving without overloading your already-packed schedule. Think shorter, more relaxed workouts that help you feel good without draining your energy. Whether it’s a quick 10-minute Pilates session or a gentle stretch, these are workouts that fit seamlessly into your day.
Here are some practical ways to keep movement a priority:
- Travel-Friendly Workouts: Try bodyweight exercises you can do anywhere—hotel rooms, your parents' living room, or even outdoors in the crisp winter air. A few squats, planks, or yoga stretches can make all the difference. Download the BURN App to get daily workouts you can do from anywhere!
- Walk it Out: Turn holiday errands into an opportunity for movement. Park further away, take the stairs, or schedule an evening stroll to admire Christmas lights.
- Festive Fun: Turn holiday traditions into active moments—ice skating, dancing to holiday music, or playing games with family.
The goal isn’t perfection; it’s consistency. Just 10-20 minutes of movement each day is enough to keep your body and mind feeling fabulous.
2. Say Yes to Dressing Up and Feeling Good
The holidays are the perfect excuse to glam up, and trust me, it’s worth the effort. When you take the time to do your hair, put on makeup, and wear an outfit that makes you feel confident, you’re saying to yourself, "I matter." That’s powerful.
Even if you’re rushing around or feeling stressed, carve out time to get ready. It’s not about vanity; it’s about showing up for yourself. When you feel good in your own skin, you’re more likely to approach the day with a positive mindset.
Some tips for effortless holiday style:
- Choose outfits that are both comfortable and chic—think cozy sweaters with fun statement jewelry.
- Experiment with a bold lip color or festive nail polish to get into the holiday spirit.
- Don’t underestimate the power of a great pair of boots or heels to elevate your look.
This isn’t about impressing others; it’s about embracing the joy of the season and letting that reflect in how you present yourself.
3. Say Yes to Preparation
Preparation is your secret weapon for balancing holiday responsibilities with self-care. When you take the time to plan ahead, you’re setting yourself up for success.
Here’s how to stay ahead of the holiday chaos:
- Schedule Work in Batches: If you’re running a business or juggling work responsibilities, carve out a few focused hours to get everything done. This way, you’re not glued to your laptop on Christmas Eve.
- Plan Your Workouts: Use my app to schedule your workouts in advance. Having a game plan makes it easier to stay consistent.
- Meal Prep for the Win: The holidays can derail even the best nutrition habits. Combat this by prepping a few healthy meals or snacks ahead of time. Stock up on fresh fruits, nuts, and protein-packed options to avoid reaching for the cookie tray every time.
When you prepare, you’re creating space for what really matters—connection, celebration, and relaxation.
4. Say Yes to Self-Care Rituals
Self-care doesn’t have to mean booking a spa day (although, go for it if you can!). It’s about finding little moments each day to check in with yourself. Inside the Burn by Rebecca Louise app, you’ll find guided meditations that are perfect for this time of year. Just 5-10 minutes of mindfulness can help you reset and recharge.
Other simple self-care rituals to try:
- Morning Gratitude: Write down three things you’re grateful for each morning. This small habit can shift your mindset for the entire day.
- Nightly Wind-Down: Create an evening routine that helps you de-stress. A warm bath, calming tea, or journaling can work wonders.
- Digital Detox: Take breaks from social media to stay present with your loved ones.
5. Say Yes to Prioritizing What Matters
At the end of the day, the holidays are about connection—whether that’s with family, friends, or even yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to do it all, but remember: you don’t have to.
Ask yourself, What’s truly important to me this season? Then, say yes to those things and let the rest fall away.
Here’s how to prioritize with purpose:
- Set Boundaries with Love: It’s okay to say no to events or obligations that don’t align with your priorities. Be honest and kind, and remember that protecting your energy is an act of self-care.
- Make Time for Traditions: Whether it’s baking cookies with your kids or watching your favorite holiday movie, cherish the little moments that make the season special.
- Be Present: Put your phone down, engage in conversations, and soak up the joy around you. The holidays are fleeting—make them count.
Feeling a little burnout at this time of the year...? Listen to my podcast on avoiding the burnout!
6. Say Yes to Energy-Boosting Habits
What do we all want during the holidays? More energy! And the secret to feeling energized isn’t more caffeine or sugar—it’s taking care of yourself through movement, nutrition, and rest.
Here are my top tips for staying energized:
- Exercise Daily: Movement is the ultimate energy booster. Even a quick workout can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
- Eat Nourishing Foods: Enjoy the treats, but don’t forget to fuel your body with whole, nutrient-rich foods. Balance is key!
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay alert and avoid the post-holiday slump.
- Prioritize Sleep: Late-night parties are fun, but make sure you’re getting enough rest to recharge.
7. Say Yes to Grit and Gratitude
The holidays can test your patience and resilience, but you’ve got this. Tap into your grit—the same grit that’s helped you crush your fitness goals, conquer challenges, and show up for yourself time and time again.
And don’t forget gratitude. When the to-do list feels endless or the family drama kicks in, pause and reflect on the good. Gratitude shifts your perspective and helps you navigate the season with grace.
This holiday season, let’s rewrite the script. Instead of getting caught up in the chaos, focus on what you’re saying "yes" to. Say yes to movement, preparation, self-care, and meaningful connections. Because when you take care of yourself, you have more to give to the people and moments that matter most.
So, lace up your sneakers, throw on that red lipstick, and get ready to shine your brightest this holiday season. You’ve got this!
Love,
Rebecca
xxx
P.S We have lots of new and exciting things coming for you in 2025, make sure you are on my newsletter list to hear all the new updates first!
