Self-Care During the Holidays: Finding Balance in a Busy Season
by Cali Shimkovitz, MEd, RP(Q)
For many people, the holiday season is painted as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. And while those moments can certainly be part of it, the reality is that this time of year can also feel overwhelming. Full calendars, family dynamics, financial stress, travel, year-end deadlines, and the pressure to make everything “perfect” can leave us feeling depleted before the new year even begins.
At Straight Up Health, we often remind clients that self-care isn’t about adding more to your to-do list. It’s about tuning in, noticing what you need, and giving yourself permission to care for yourself in ways that are realistic and meaningful — especially during busy seasons like this one.
Why the Holidays Can Feel So Hard
The holidays tend to stir up a mix of emotions. For some, it’s a reminder of loss, grief, or complicated relationships. For others, it’s the exhaustion of trying to meet expectations – your own and everyone else’s. Even positive events can be draining when they come back-to-back without much space to rest.
If you find yourself feeling more irritable, anxious, tired, or emotionally sensitive this time of year, you’re not alone. These are very human responses to a season that asks a lot of us.
Redefining Self-Care
Self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or perfectly curated routines (though those can be lovely if they work for you). More often, it looks like small, intentional choices that support your mental and emotional well-being.
Ask yourself:
What do I actually need more of right now?
What feels draining that I might be able to do less of?
Sometimes self-care is doing less, not more.
Practical Ways to Care for Yourself This Season
Here are a few gentle, realistic ways to prioritize yourself over the holidays:
1. Set compassionate boundaries.
You don’t have to say yes to every invitation, tradition, or request. It’s okay to leave early, decline plans, or create limits around topics that are hard for you. Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out – they’re about protecting your energy.
2. Keep expectations flexible.
The idea that the holidays should look a certain way can create a lot of pressure. Try to notice when you’re caught in “shoulds” and gently remind yourself that good enough is often more than enough.
3. Stick to a few grounding routines.
Sleep, movement, regular meals, and getting outside can be anchors when everything else feels busy or unpredictable. You don’t need a perfect routine. Even one small habit can help your nervous system feel more settled.
4. Make space for your feelings.
If this season brings up sadness, grief, loneliness, or mixed emotions, that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. Let yourself acknowledge what’s there. Journaling, talking with someone you trust, or simply naming your feelings can be powerful.
5. Take short moments just for you.
Self-care doesn’t have to take hours. A few minutes of slow breathing, a warm drink in silence, a quick walk, or listening to a favourite song can offer meaningful resets throughout the day.
6. Stay connected — in ways that feel supportive.
Connection is important, but it should feel nourishing, not depleting. Choose the people and spaces where you can show up as yourself. And if you’re feeling alone, consider reaching out – even a brief message can open the door to support.
Letting Go of “Perfect”
Many of us carry the belief that the holidays have to be magical, joyful, and memorable all the time. But real life is messier than that. There will be awkward moments, missed plans, hard conversations, and days when you’re just tired.
What if, instead of aiming for perfection, you aimed for kindness? Kindness to yourself when you’re overwhelmed. Kindness to others when they’re struggling. Kindness in the way you
Moving Into the New Year
Self-care over the holidays isn’t about doing it “right.” It’s about checking in, being honest with yourself, and making small choices that help you feel a little more grounded, supported, and human.
As this year comes to a close, we invite you to ask: What would it look like to treat myself with the same care I offer others? Even one small step in that direction is worth celebrating.