Taking a Step Back: Why We Should Appreciate the Holidays More

It’s no secret that many of us are often so consumed with our daily lives that we forget to take a step back, appreciate the here and now, and recognize the importance of holidays. From taking trips to different countries to simply having more time for our loved ones and ourselves or even to spend time in sharing your blessings to other people, holidays are necessary in order for us to feel relaxed and free!  

The Benefits of the Holidays 

Taking holidays is one of the best ways to make sure you get the rest that you need. Not only does it allow us to spend more time with our loved ones, but it can also give us a chance to detach from our daily worries and stresses, especially from work. After all, it’s hard not to relax when you’re surrounded by a different view or surrounded by people who make you feel at peace. When we have some time away from work, it can help restore balance between our professional and personal lives. That way, when we return, we can be more organized and productive during our work days.  

Creating Self-Care Rituals During Holidays  

Holidays don’t always have to involve traveling—you can just as easily create your own self-care rituals at home! Whether it’s sleeping in late or indulging in your favorite foods or activities (like reading!), taking care of yourself is just as important as staying productive throughout the year. You could even try out an online yoga class or finally pick up that instrument you’ve been wanting to learn! The best part about self-care rituals is that they don’t require a lot of money or time—all they require is commitment and dedication on your part.  

Making Time for Yourself During Holidays  

Finally, it's important to remember that the holidays should be about making memories and celebrating life with others and yourself without worrying too much about what other people think or what demands your job requires from you. Take advantage of holidays by focusing on activities that bring you joy and peace—whether it's enjoying nature through camping or simply lounging around with friends and family at home—and use this precious time wisely!   

Taking a break during holidays is necessary because it gives us a few days off from our hardworking lifestyles while allowing us to be able to explore other things, maybe create self-care rituals at home, and make more time for family and ourselves without feeling guilty about it. So, if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by life lately, don’t forget to use this season to take a step back. 

Taking time to reflect and learn from the year just gone also. 

We often use the new year to set ‘resolutions’, or just goals.  It can also be good to take a moment to notice the year that has just passed.  I always make time over the holiday season to write in my journal with three different headings: 

• What was great about 2023? 

• What was challenging about 2023? 

• What am I looking forward to about 2024? 

I tend to write my goals in a format of ‘what I am looking forward to’ because they feel more exciting, than a ‘task’ to ‘work on’. 

I hope something in this article was useful for you!