Wednesday

"I give my energy to things that fill my cup."

Happy Wednesday! Here’s the scoop for today:

• Reduce stress during the holidays

• The benefits of gift-giving

• Self-care gifts for the holidays

• Holiday self-care ideas

Ideas to Reduce Stress During the Holidays

With events galore, the pressure of shopping, and an all-around busy time of year, the holidays can be stressful, to say the least. We may lose sight of what this time of year is about amid all the stress.

We may not realize it, but stress can cause a number of physical and mental health problems, including anxiety, fatigue, trouble sleeping, headaches, and more. It’s crucial to take steps to de-stress

Here are a few of our favorite ways to reduce stress during the holidays:

• Remember the reason for the season: We may get distracted by the busyness of this time of year — however, this is the perfect reminder to reflect on what the season means to you.

• Give yourself grace: Remember that you are doing your best, and that’s all that matters.

• Embrace time with loved ones: This is an excellent way to practice social self-care and enjoy the company of those who matter most.

• Give back: Volunteer, help a neighbor, and contribute to your community!

The Benefits of Gift-Giving

Many of us spend hours shopping for friends, family, and loved ones to find the perfect gift during the holiday season. It can be such a joy to show our appreciation with something meaningful.

However, gift-giving isn’t only a way to show kindness, love, and appreciation for others!

Research has highlighted that spending money on others actually contributes to more happiness than if you spend money on yourself! Other research has found that gift-giving activates brain pathways that release oxytocin, which is similar to that of getting a reward!

When we give a gift, we may also experience what’s known as the “warm glow of kindness,” or a rush of feeling good!

If you’re looking for a way to give yourself a boost, consider giving a heartfelt gift to a loved one.

🎁 Self-Care Gifts to Make the Season Shine 🎁

The holidays are the perfect time to focus on what really matters: your well-being. We’ve put together a collection of thoughtful gifts designed to help you recharge, relax, and step into the new year feeling your best. Whether for yourself or someone you love, these picks are all about making self-care a priority.

Here are a few of our favorites:

✈️ FlyKitt Travel Kit – Say goodbye to jet lag! This kit includes blue-light blocking glasses, custom supplements, and an AI-powered app to keep you energized and balanced while traveling. A must-have for the wanderlust-filled soul in your life.

🌿 BloomsyBox – Bring a little joy to any space with a delivery of fresh, seasonal blooms. These stunning flowers add warmth and beauty wherever they go—the perfect way to brighten someone’s day (or your own!).

✨ Give the gift of wellness and relaxation this holiday season. Click below to see our full guide and find thoughtful gifts that inspire calm, joy, and balance. 💖

Shop the Holiday Gift Guide!

Holiday Self-Care Ideas

When you’re short on time or focused on all of the other fun events throughout the holiday season, you may forget to prioritize self-care.

Here are a few ideas to inspire some “me” time during the season:

• Set boundaries: Many of us may tend to want to go overboard or have a hard time saying “no” in the name of the holidays. However, setting healthy boundaries can make things much more manageable.

• Pause and appreciate the world around you: Look out the window and reflect on the season, practicing gratitude for the things you notice.

• Take time to unplug with things that you enjoy: Whether it’s a favorite movie, a craft, a good book, or some movement, set intentional time to put down devices and do what brings you joy.

• Find joy in the little things: From a warm cup of cocoa to the first snowfall, embrace mindfulness and stay grounded in the present moment. Find happiness in small moments throughout the day.

While it can be easy to put self-care to the side, challenge yourself to keep it a priority!

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: True! While "Jingle Bells" is often embraced in the month of December, it actually was originally a Thanksgiving song.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: This holiday season, don't forget to make some time for self-care!

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!