‘Tis the season…to be stressed out.
Feeling a little frazzled this holiday season? You’re not alone. Welcome to the last two weeks of the year when life feels like everything, everywhere, all at once. If you’re someone who celebrates the holiday season, this time of year can feel pretty jam-packed. But don’t worry – we got your back. Whether you’re traveling, hosting, or just trying to meet your end of year deadlines, here are 10 tips to keep you cool, calm and collected as we approach the finish line.
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Enjoy yourself! (in moderation)
Do you ever look around and wonder where the sweets are coming from? Fresh baked cookies, assorted chocolates and candy canes are ubiquitous and extremely tempting. Tasty treats are everywhere and it’s easy to indulge every chance you get but those indulgences add up. Enjoy yourself! And try yourself to do so in moderation. There’s a fine line between satisfying a sweet tooth and an upset tummy. Keep your meals balanced and stay hydrated but definitely try those cookies your neighbors brought over.
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Move Your Body
With so much to do the days seem to zoom by and before you know it, you’ve been sitting
down at your desk for 5 hours straight. Shout out to you for staying so focused, but remember
your body wants to move. Prioritize movement. Try to get some fresh air every day. Take your phone calls while walking if possible. Exercise increases blood flow and stimulates your brain so workout early in the day if you can. You may even feel more energized throughout the day.
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Treat Yourself
This time of year focuses so much on giving to others that we can easily forget about ourselves. In the midst of figuring out what you’re bringing to the next holiday party, find some time to pamper yourself Get that pedicure, and watch a movie you love. You deserve it.
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Let go, Let it flow
There is a lot being asked of you right now. There are tons of places to be and many people to see. With so many moving parts it’s impossible to control every single detail of everything you have going on. Make a plan, prepare as best as you can and then let it go. Be in the moment and enjoy the moments you’ve waited all year for.
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Take A Moment to yourself
If you’re introverted, the holidays can be extremely taxing. With so much pressure to be
social, how do you keep things balanced? Find moments, however brief, to check in with
yourself. Journal to help process your thoughts. Metate to give yourself a sense of calm, or just steal away for a quick breather. Whatever you do, remember to take care of yourself first so you can be present with those around you.
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Reach Out
For some, the holidays don’t feel so happy. If you’re feeling lonely or isolated right now, trust me, you are not alone. The holidays highlight time we get to spend with our loved ones but this emphasis on togetherness is also a reminder that some of the ones we love the most are no longer with us. It’s okay to talk about it! Reach out to someone you love and trust. Schedule a phone date with a friend and let yourself feel whatever comes to you.
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Prepare in advance
Imagine getting to the airport just to find out that you left your airpods on the desk. So much for watching Netflx on the plane. There is nothing worse than leaving for a trip and realizing, once it’s too late, that you’ve forgotten something critical. If you’re traveling, make a list (check it twice). Pack beforehand and plan out the major events; where you'll stop to eat, freshen up, and take pics in your matching HBCULeggings sweatshirts. Stay one step ahead so you can get to everything you have planned.
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It’s Ok To say no
Time travel is still in the works so it’s impossible to be in two places at once (for now). You don’t have to go to every holiday party. If you’re feeling like you’re at capacity, be kind and remember, you don’t have to accept every invitation extended to you. It’s okay to say no.
Maybe do a FaceTime check in instead of driving across the state to watch the ball drop on TV.
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Reflect
If no one has asked you about your new year’s resolutions yet, trust me, it’s coming. Around this time of year, there is a lot of pressure to have a full fledged action plan about how you’ll reach your absolute full potential in the year to come. You don’t have to give into it. Instead, take a moment to reflect on how much you’ve accomplished this year. Make a list of things you’re proud of and bask in it.
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Contribute
Need is amplified this time of year.. Giving puts anyone in a good mood and is a great way for you to support your community . Maybe this looks like donating to your favorite charity or volunteering at your local food kitchen a few times in the weeks to come. It can even look like buying something at HBCULeggings.com where 15% of profits are donated to HBCUs. ‘Tis the season!
Now you’re ready to take this holiday season by storm. Thank you for your continued support this year and look out for us as we get ready to come back in 2023. Happy holidays, however you celebrate, from HBCU Leggings!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bibi Mama is a first generation Beninese-American actress born and raised in Mansfield, CT. Growing up she watched her father, an English professor and author, continue the Yoruba oral tradition through storytelling, which inspired her. She earned her B.F.A. from Howard University and recently finished her MFA at the Old Globe/University of San Diego MFA Graduate Acting Program.