ThrivingYOU BLOG

The winter break is almost upon us! For two (or three, if you’re lucky) blissful weeks, school will be out and there will be time to catch our collective breath and relax. During the winter break, we encourage you to take some much-needed time to rest and connect with your friends and family.

We know it is often a busy time, with shopping and cooking and events pulling at our attention, but here are some ways to slow down, relax, and take time to connect authentically with the people you love.

1. Prioritize down time.

Remember, what you say no to is just as important as what you say yes to. Don’t let guilt, “tradition,” or a sense of obligation make you say yes to events and activities that drain your energy. As you prep for the winter break, take a moment to jot down what your priorities are for the season, and then intentionally create space and time for those things. If that means bringing store-bought cookies to a holiday gathering or saying no to events you don’t love, we promise the world will not end– and you may even feel a blissful sense of relief!

2. Focus on quality time with the people you love.

The rush of the season often has us seeing a lot of folks, but not necessarily getting time for quality connection. This winter break, perhaps carve out time to meet a friend for coffee or go out on a date with your significant other or  to sit down to a family dinner– sans technology– and really focus on connection. Try to engage authentically and without the distraction of multi-tasking.

3. Schedule “me” time.

While it might be unrealistic to schedule quiet “me” time for hours a day, every day, we want to encourage you to find a little time each day where you can pause the hubbub and take a moment or two  to focus on yourself. This might mean taking a quiet 5-10 minute break and doing some deep breathing or meditation; going for a walk, hitting the gym; or even opting to go to bed a little earlier for some much needed rest. Be intentional about taking time to take care of yourself.

4. Disconnect from social media.

We don’t mean quitting cold turkey, but perhaps hitting the pause button for a few days during the break, to allow yourself to enjoy your holidays without the urge to compare your break to what other people are doing. Even if you can’t commit to a full day, consider short breaks from your phone/social media when you are engaged in holiday activities with your loved ones. Doing so will allow you to be more present at the event or activity. You can still take photos to remember that hilarious thing that happened at the New Year’s gathering, or your child’s first time decorating cookies, but resist the urge to post right that moment or the pressure to get the “perfect” shot.

We hope this helps you to have a happy and healthy winter break, filled with quality connection and relaxation, that will bring you into the new year feeling refreshed and content.