Holiday Self-care

Have patience with all things. But, first of all with yourself.

Francis de Sales

An article I saw about slowing down, a message citing holiday fatigue, a blog post from my friend, Barb, titled Permission to Rest. I’ve learned when God whispers in my ear it’s a good idea to listen.

It’s the holidays and no matter how many times I’ve said, “This time will be different.” I find myself with only a few days left before Christmas, mailing out last minute cards. Hoping, against hope, that the beleaguered USPS will somehow manage to get them there before December 25. Telling my family that if they have a gift request and it involves being shipped, that ship will soon be sailing. Reminding myself that I’m having a tea on December 23 and my family over for dinner on Christmas Eve. Now might be the time to plan a menu.

Sarah Ban Breathnach writes, “Wouldn’t the real Christmas miracle be if we slowed downing enough to remember the reason for the season.” After doing this for fifty years or so, I can promise you, no one will care or even notice if the paper hand towels in the bathroom don’t coordinate with the ribbon in the centerpiece on the sink. Okay. maybe that’s an extreme example, but remember this is a perfectionist speaking. That admission made, even I know there is a time to step back and say, “Enough!” It’s easy to get so caught up in wanting everything to be perfect for your family and friends, you forget to take a breathe and practice some self-care. Slow down, opt out of a party, take a nap.

I remember my son coming home from a friend’s house, at Christmas, horrified because gifts were laid under the tree in the bags from the store where they were bought. Wow, I thought, that would save a lot of time. I wasn’t ready to go that far, however I’ll bet that mother could sit down with a glass of wine and catch a holiday movie. Whatever you traditions are during this joyous time of year, take a few minutes to be good to yourself and enjoy the season.