High energy, lots of laughter, and time with friends – that describes me!
Cozy blankies, good books, soft kitties, and time alone – that also describes me!
And as the days get shorter, my energy tends to flag a bit, and my inclination is to hole up on my sofa.
You know. Just when everyone else wants to gather, shop, cook, and party during the holiday season.
How do you enjoy the season when you don’t really feel like it?
Here are a few nuggets I’ve collected over the years.
Fight It
Just like you fight putting that potato chip in your mouth when you really want it but what you NEED is to head to the gym.
Fight it.
If this is the one time of year you can spend with family or friends, put on a bit of lipstick and your good dress sneakers and do it!
I have found that scheduling get-togethers earlier in the day helps me enjoy myself when my energy is highest, avoid rush-hour traffic, and get home early enough to enjoy a chapter or two.
Treat Yourself
Knowing how to treat myself is a balancing act. Is eating an extra cookie a treat, or a source of inflammation tomorrow?
Is purchasing that new outfit perfect for an occasion, or something I will be putting – unworn – into the donation bag next year?
Treating myself to a little holiday cheer elevates my overall experience, and here are a few suggestions:
- A nicer bottle of wine or champagne than I normally drink
- A splurge in the produce aisle on a special fruit or veggie that only comes around once a year
- A mani or pedi (with red polish, of course!)
- A rollerball of my favorite perfume
None of these treats will affect my long-term retirement plan, nor will they completely derail my health.
Rethink Gatherings
Not every gathering has to be a big party. Or involve spending time coordinating complicated schedules for a holiday lunch. Or a cookie exchange.
Or, worse yet – a gift exchange.
I guess you probably catch my drift, even if it sounds a bit bah-humbugish.
Meeting a friend for a walk on a sunny day, enjoying a cup of coffee before a gym class, chatting on the phone while you have curlers in your hair (I’m taking to you, Chris & Jann!)
Those are some of my favorite ways to spend time with special people that require no participation in holiday madness.
Just all the goodness.
I’ve written before about the simple pleasures of slowing down and enjoying the moment.
Wrap Up
If you derive energy from going all out over the holiday season, by all means – go for it!
But if you tend to feel a little drained, remember what brings you personal joy and try to incorporate that into your holiday interactions.
So. Now. Buckle up, my friend, and let’s enjoy this season, shall we?
God bless.
