How to Curb Holiday Madness and (Try to) Stay Sane

After a whirlwind year — one we are still working through — of so few ups and so many downs, now is a great time to refocus on the positive and try to destress and decompress.

Use this list of low-maintenance, easy-to-follow, self-help routine ideas to take your self care seriously and instill some healthy habits in the kids.

Create a Simple Routine

Before bed, create a list of accomplishments you’d like to see through the next day — it can be anything from taking a 30-minute walk at lunch, signing up for an online course or trying a new recipe. Waking up to a plan you have control over, no matter how simple, can really set the tone for the entire day. Sure, the kids have class, extracurriculars and a whole schedule of their own, but it’s important there are a few things on your list every day only about you.

Wake Up Calmly

Your day is about to get messy and chaotic, so creating a simple and healthy wake-up routine for yourself, whether that means meditating for five minutes before you leave your room or drinking a lemon water first thing out of bed, is a great way to ensure you start your morning right. Begin with something simple, quiet, relaxing and only for you before officially beginning your day. Notice how at no point did we say to read the news or scroll through your phone?

Limit Screen Time

Speaking of phones and news, try to limit the amount of time you spend looking at a screen during the day. Working from home, teaching from home and checking in with friends and family via Skype and FaceTime is already a lot of time dedicated to looking at a screen — most of which is necessary — so cut out the extra, unnecessary time, like scrolling through social media or online shopping. Anytime you want to check your feed, head outside for a quick walk and listen to music or a podcast.

Bring Joy

While we all hopped on the Marie Kondo method years ago, now is a good time to use her method in our daily lives — not just the closet. Do one thing every day that sparks joy. It sounds simple, but varies for everyone and can even change by the day. It could be anything from going for a brisk run in the morning, evening yoga, calling a friend, overhauling a room that needs attention, donating time and effort at a shelter, baking with the kids or a simple bubble bath. Find something that brings you joy and peace and make time for it during your day.

Make 2021 Plans

Look ahead to the new year by booking that trip you missed this year for next year. Having something on the books for the coming months can lift your spirits immensely, and you have plenty of time to put some cash away for a fun 2021 vacation — maybe add the travel insurance option, just in case.