How to Manage Holiday Burnout and Embrace Seasonal Self-Care

Last December, I found myself sitting in my car outside a crowded shopping centre, utterly drained. I had just spent hours rushing from one errand to the next, trying to make everything perfect for the holidays.

Instead of feeling festive, I felt a deep sense of resentment—toward the season, the expectations, and even myself for not being able to keep up.

It wasn’t until I stopped and asked, “What do I actually need right now?” that I realised I wasn’t failing; I was simply running on empty. That moment shifted how I approached the rest of the holidays.

The holidays bring a mix of joy and chaos— it’s a season to celebrate, yet one that can also push us to our limits. Between endless to-do lists, more complicated family dynamics, and the pressure to make everything perfect, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. Add in the emotional weight of year-end reflections, and burnout can quickly take hold.

But what if we could shift the focus this season, embracing a gentler, maybe even messier, approach that prioritizes your well-being? Here are some ideas for avoiding, or navigating, holiday burnout.

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First, How to Identify Holiday Burnout

Holiday burnout can creep up on us, often disguised as everyday stress. It might feel like constant exhaustion, even after a full night’s sleep, or irritability over small things that wouldn’t normally bother you.

Physically, it can show up as tension headaches, a racing mind, or a sense of being on edge. Emotionally, you may notice feelings of detachment, overwhelm, or resentment toward tasks and traditions you once enjoyed.

Pay attention to the signals: are you losing your patience more easily, withdrawing from loved ones, or struggling to keep up with your usual energy levels? Recognizing these signs early is the first step in addressing burnout and finding ways to restore your capacity during the season.

Just know that burnout during the holidays doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong; it means you’re human. And if holiday burnout does show up use it as a reminder to pause and reconnect with what truly matters.

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Second, What to Do If You’re Feeling Burned Out This Holiday Season

Here’s how to manage holiday burnout while embracing seasonal self-care and meaningful connection:

1. Pause and Identify Your Emotions

When emotions feel overwhelming, we often want to avoid them at all costs, but paying attention to them could be the key to feeling better. Take a moment just to name your emotions. Saying (to yourself perhaps) “I feel anxious” or “I feel overwhelmed” helps reduce the intensity of an emotion and gives you clarity on what you need.

2.Incorporate Seasonal Self-Care

Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate. Embrace small habits like enjoying a quiet cup of tea, stepping outside for fresh air, or saying no to an unnecessary task.

We often think this is the part that’s “indulgent” or that can be pushed back to later, but it’s often these small practices that can create the breathing room we most need amidst the chaos.

3. Build Positive Connections

Instead of focusing on what’s expected, look for authentic ways to connect. Share a meal, have a heartfelt conversation, or take a moment to thank someone you appreciate. Small, genuine interactions can uplift your mood and theirs.

This might mean that you don’t make three stuffings, or that you don’t pack in multiple events in one day, or that you buy one less perfect gift. Sometimes paring back or even shifting our expectations, can give us what we most need: time with the people we love and value the most.

Shifting the focus from perfection to presence can help transform the season into something meaningful, even amidst the busyness.

4. Set Boundaries for Your Emotional Capacity

When you feel your mental and emotional reserves depleting, give yourself permission to step back. Decline obligations that don’t serve you and focus on what truly restores your energy.

You don’t need to be “on” the whole Holiday Season: you can still honor your energy and it’s still ok to rest. It’s winter after all, a season that demands something quieter of us and invites us to retreat into cozy.

5. Reframe Your Perspective

Challenge the holiday “shoulds” and ask yourself, “What do I truly need right now?” Maybe it’s a moment of solitude, a conversation with a loved one, or just letting go of perfection.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that holidays are only successful if they’re flawless. But the truth is, the most meaningful moments often come when we let go of the pressure to do everything and focus instead on what we truly value.

When you start to feel burned out, try to connect back in with yourself and discover what you really need from this season so it can stay joyful and magical to you.

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This Holiday Season give yourself permission to rewrite the rules. Focus on what feels good to you, whether it’s embracing rest, creating space for joy, or finding new ways to connect with others. Start small, and remember: it’s okay to prioritise yourself in the midst of everything else.

What emotions are showing up for you this holiday season? How are you balancing connection and self-care?

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Feeling stressed, overwhelmed or a little burned out this Holiday Season?

Here’s how we can help:

1. Book a personalized Emotions Coaching session.

2. Join our Bath Workshop on Navigating Holiday Emotions.

3. Subscribe to our newsletter for our Well-ish Guide to the Holiday Season

How to Check In With Yourself (And Why It Matters): A Holiday Reflection Guide

The holidays can be a whirlwind of events, gatherings, and to-do lists. With so much happening, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush and lose sight of our own needs. But amidst the holiday hustle, checking in with yourself can be one of the most powerful ways to stay grounded. A few minutes of self-reflection each day can make a huge difference in managing stress, staying connected to what matters, and enjoying the season fully.

In this guide, we’ll explore why checking in with yourself is so valuable and provide simple, supportive prompts to help you find peace and balance.

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Why Self-Check-Ins Matter (Especially During the Holidays)

The practice of checking in with yourself is about taking a moment to recognise what you’re feeling and what you need. During the holidays, emotions can run high, from joy and excitement to stress and overwhelm. When we pause to acknowledge these feelings, we’re better equipped to handle whatever comes our way.

Studies show that regular self-reflection can reduce stress and improve emotional resilience. Taking time to listen to yourself helps you identify your needs, make healthier choices, and ultimately enjoy a more balanced holiday season.

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Daily Prompts to Guide Your Self-Check-Ins

To make self-reflection easy, here are three simple prompts you can use throughout the season. Each prompt is designed to help you tune into your emotions, connect with what brings you joy, and find gratitude.

1. Start with “What Am I Feeling Right Now?”

This question is simple but powerful. By asking yourself what you’re feeling, you give yourself a moment to pause and acknowledge any emotions that may be under the surface. Naming your feelings – whether they’re positive, neutral, or challenging – can help you process them more effectively.

Why It Helps: Research shows that naming our emotions helps reduce their intensity and brings a sense of clarity. When we recognise our feelings without judgement, we become more present and less reactive.

Try This Prompt: “What am I feeling right now?” – Take a minute to write down any feelings that come up, without filtering or judging. If you’re feeling both joy and stress, for example, let both emotions exist together. This honesty allows for a more grounded experience.

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2. Reflect on What Brings You Joy and Ease

During the holidays, it’s easy to get swept up in activities that might not truly bring us happiness. Reflecting on what genuinely brings you joy and ease can help you prioritise those moments and find ways to make them part of your routine.

Why It Helps: Research shows that reflecting on positive experiences helps create a more balanced mindset. By focusing on what’s working, you’re more likely to build a holiday season around things that feel nourishing.

Try This Prompt: “What small moments have I enjoyed most this week?”* – Reflect on simple things that made you feel good, whether it’s a quiet evening with a book, a cup of tea, or time with loved ones. Let these moments guide how you spend your time in the coming days.

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3. End the Season with Gratitude

Gratitude can be a powerful tool for closing out the holiday season on a positive note. By focusing on what you’re thankful for, you can create a sense of closure that leaves you feeling content and fulfilled.

Why It Helps: Gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, increase happiness, and strengthen relationships. When we end the season with gratitude, we’re more likely to carry those positive feelings into the new year.

Try This Prompt: “What am I most grateful for this holiday season?” – Think about what’s brought you joy, connection, or peace over the past few weeks. This could be a special moment, a relationship, or even something as simple as a quiet morning. Reflecting on these moments helps you appreciate the season fully.

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Create Your Own Check-In Rituals

In addition to using these prompts, try creating a few check-in rituals to help make self-reflection a natural part of your day. Here are some ideas for easy rituals that fit seamlessly into a busy holiday schedule.

1. Morning Journal Moment

Start your day with a short journal entry using one of the prompts above. Even a few lines can help set a positive tone for the day and keep you connected to yourself.

2. Midday Pause

Take a short break midday to check in with how you’re feeling and what you need. This could be a quick breathing exercise, a walk outside, or simply a moment of stillness. By giving yourself space to pause, you can recalibrate and approach the rest of the day with a clearer mind.

3. Evening Gratitude Reflection

Before bed, jot down one or two things you’re grateful for from the day. Reflecting on these moments helps you wind down, promotes better sleep, and encourages a sense of appreciation.

Holiday Self-Check-In: Finding Ease in Simplicity

Checking in with yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the beauty of these prompts is their simplicity. The goal is to reconnect with what truly matters to you – your feelings, your joys, and your moments of gratitude. By taking just a few minutes each day, you’re nurturing a sense of calm, presence, and balance throughout the season.

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A More Mindful Holiday

This holiday season, make time for what truly matters – starting with yourself. By using these prompts and creating check-in rituals, you can stay connected to your well-being and approach each day with a sense of peace. Self-reflection is one of the best gifts you can give yourself, allowing you to enjoy the season in a way that feels both meaningful and manageable.

If you’re ready for more tips on finding ease and joy this holiday season, sign up for our free Well-ish Guide to Feeling Better this Holiday Season! With simple, grounding ideas for a more balanced holiday, it’s the perfect companion for a season that feels just right.

5 Simple Shifts for a Calmer, Happier Holiday Season

The holiday season can be a time of joy, connection, and warmth. But let’s face it – it can also be a time of stress and overwhelm, as we try to keep up with the endless to-do lists and holiday “shoulds.” Sometimes, the pressure to make everything “just right” leaves us feeling more frazzled than festive. This year, instead of aiming for perfection, why not try a few tiny shifts that can make a big difference?

Small, intentional changes can help you create a season that feels lighter, more balanced, and genuinely enjoyable. From setting daily intentions to savouring little moments, these simple shifts can help you feel grounded and at ease, even on the busiest days. Here’s how to get started.

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1. Start Your Day with a “Holiday Intention”

How we start each day can set the tone for how we experience the whole season. Rather than diving straight into the holiday hustle, try beginning each morning with a quiet moment to set an intention for the day. This doesn’t need to be anything big or elaborate – just a simple feeling you want to focus on, like “peace,” “connection,” or “joy.”

How It Works

Intentions are powerful because they shift our focus from what we have to do to how we want to feel. Research on mindfulness shows that setting daily intentions can improve mood and reduce stress. By choosing a specific feeling to guide your day, you’re creating a mental framework that prioritises your well-being, not just productivity.

Try This Action Prompt

Each morning, pause and ask yourself: “What feeling do I want to cultivate today?” Write it down or simply say it out loud to yourself. For example: “Today, I want to feel calm.” Let this intention gently guide your choices and responses throughout the day..

Small Reminder

Even if things don’t go as planned, try returning to your intention. Whether it’s taking a breath or pausing for a moment of gratitude, small steps can bring you back to the feeling you want to create.

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2. Create a “Pause Ritual” for When Things Feel Busy

Holidays tend to come with a natural uptick in busyness. From last-minute errands to unexpected guests, it’s easy to feel swept up in the momentum. That’s why having a go-to “pause ritual” can be such a helpful tool. When you have a simple, calming activity that you can use anytime, it becomes easier to slow down, reset, and approach each moment with more mindfulness.

How It Works

Pause rituals act like mini “time-outs” that let us step back from the chaos. Studies suggest that taking short breaks throughout the day improves mental clarity and overall well-being. Even a quick minute can help you re-centre, helping you approach each task with renewed calm and focus.

Try This Action Prompt

Choose a small ritual that feels calming to you, like a breathing exercise, stretching, or enjoying a warm drink without distractions. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, take one minute to pause and focus on this ritual.

Example Pause Rituals

- Breathe Deeply: Take three deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth.

- Savour the Warmth: Sip a cup of tea or coffee slowly, noticing the warmth, taste, and aroma.

- Look Around: Take a quick look outside or around the room, noticing something that brings you a sense of peace.

By building a pause ritual into your day, you’ll create small moments of calm that can help you manage even the busiest days.

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3. Keep a Small Wins List

During the holiday rush, it’s easy to lose sight of the small things we accomplish each day. But recognising these “small wins” can create a surprising sense of achievement and joy. Keeping a daily list of even the tiniest wins can remind you of your progress and help you appreciate your efforts, no matter how big or small.

How It Works

Celebrating small achievements has been shown to boost mood and increase motivation. A small win could be something as simple as finishing a task, spending a quiet moment with a loved one, or enjoying a peaceful walk. Noticing and acknowledging these wins helps reinforce that you’re moving forward, even in small ways.

Try This Action Prompt

At the end of each day, write down one small “win” you experienced. It could be anything from a completed task to a pleasant conversation. Focus on moments that made you feel good.

Examples of Small Wins

- Enjoyed a quiet moment with a hot drink

- Finished a task you were putting off

- Took a five-minute walk outside

- Received a kind message or sent one

Reflecting on these moments at the end of the day can leave you with a sense of satisfaction and gratitude, making the holiday season feel fuller and more meaningful.

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4. Embrace “Micro Moments” of Gratitude

Gratitude doesn’t need to be a grand gesture or a once-a-year Thanksgiving tradition. Instead, consider practicing gratitude in “micro moments” throughout the season. Taking a few seconds to pause and appreciate something small can help you feel grounded and connected to the present.

How It Works

Studies show that gratitude improves mental health, fostering resilience and reducing stress. Practising gratitude in small, frequent doses lets you capture the benefits without needing to set aside large chunks of time.

Try This Action Prompt

Look for one small thing each day that you’re grateful for, whether it’s a cozy blanket, a loved one’s smile, or the smell of holiday treats. Take a few seconds to pause and savour it.

Examples of Micro Moments of Gratitude

- Appreciating a beautiful sunset or holiday lights

- Enjoying the first sip of your morning coffee

- Noticing the warmth of a cozy blanket

- Pausing to listen to a favourite holiday song

These small gratitude pauses add up, helping you experience the season with a greater sense of presence and joy.

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5. Let Go of One “Should” This Season

Sometimes, the stress of the holidays comes from feeling like we “should” do everything: we should host, we should bake, we should buy the perfect gifts. But holding onto these “shoulds” can make the season feel heavy. This year, try letting go of just one “should” that doesn’t feel right for you. It could be a tradition that no longer serves you, or an expectation that adds stress rather than joy.

How It Works

When we let go of unnecessary obligations, we make room for what genuinely matters. Letting go of a “should” can feel freeing, helping you create a holiday season that aligns with your true values.

Try This Action Prompt

Identify one “should” that doesn’t serve you and commit to letting it go. Think of it as a small holiday gift to yourself!

Examples of “Shoulds” to Let Go

- Hosting every gathering yourself

- Buying expensive, elaborate gifts for everyone

- Decorating every inch of your home

- Making complex holiday meals from scratch

By releasing one “should,” you’re giving yourself permission to make the holiday season simpler and more enjoyable.

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A Calmer, Well-ish Holiday Season

This holiday season, tiny shifts can make a big difference. Setting daily intentions, creating small moments of calm, celebrating small wins, and practicing gratitude can help you find joy in simple ways. Letting go of just one “should” gives you the freedom to create a holiday that feels balanced and meaningful.

If you’re ready for more simple ways to create a joyful, well-ish holiday season, sign up for our free Well-ish Guide to Feeling Better this Holiday Season! It’s the perfect companion to a holiday that feels good to you.

Feeling “Well-ish” is Enough: Embracing a Balanced Holiday Season

With the holiday season often comes the expectation to be our “best selves,” but striving for perfection can be overwhelming and, frankly, exhausting. Rather than aiming for perfection, what if we allowed ourselves to be just “well-ish”? This idea isn’t about lowering standards – it’s about finding joy and meaning in what feels genuinely achievable. By embracing a “well-ish” approach, we can let go of pressure and create a holiday that is kind, balanced, and nourishing.

In this post, we’ll explore how to make “well-ish” your seasonal mantra and offer some gentle prompts and actions to help you feel grounded and at ease.

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1. Reframe Wellbeing as “Good Enough”

Letting go of perfection can be challenging, especially when it comes to family gatherings, decor, and gift-giving. Yet setting realistic expectations can reduce stress and increase satisfaction. Accepting “good enough” doesn’t mean you don’t care – it simply means you’re focusing on what matters most to you this season.

Try This:

- Journal Prompt: “What does a ‘good enough’ holiday look like for me? What parts of the season can I enjoy without striving for perfection?”

- Gentle Action: Choose one holiday tradition and simplify it. For example, if cooking an elaborate dinner is daunting, consider a simpler menu or make it a potluck. Let the focus be on connection rather than presentation.

Letting go of perfect frees you to be present. By reframing “good enough” as a positive choice, you’re embracing a more intentional way to celebrate.

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2. Small Wins for a Well-ish Holiday

Small, achievable actions can go a long way in creating a sense of well-being. The science behind positive psychology shows that small, manageable changes can significantly boost our mood and resilience, especially when we’re busy. Instead of big resolutions or overwhelming to-do lists, think about small wins that bring you a moment of joy or peace.

Try This:

- Journal Prompt: “What small action could bring me joy or calm today?”

- Gentle Action: Start a “small wins” list, noting one little thing each day that brings you joy, whether it’s taking a short walk, listening to your favourite song, or enjoying a hot drink without multitasking. These small wins build up over time, creating a sense of accomplishment and balance.

By focusing on small actions, you’ll find that well-being feels more accessible. This approach aligns with the “well-ish” mindset, making it easier to enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed.

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3. Give Yourself Permission to Be Imperfect

The holiday season can make us feel like everything should be “just so,” but aiming for perfection in every area can sap our energy and joy. Research on self-compassion shows that treating ourselves with kindness – especially when we’re not meeting ideal standards – can reduce anxiety and improve our emotional well-being. By embracing our imperfect selves, we allow for more authentic, meaningful experiences.

Try This:

- Journal Prompt: “Where am I being hard on myself this season? How can I bring more compassion to these areas?”

- Gentle Action: Practice a “self-compassion break.” When you catch yourself being overly self-critical, pause and ask: “What would I say to a friend in this situation?” Often, we’re much kinder to others than we are to ourselves, and shifting that perspective can help ease the pressure.

Embracing imperfection isn’t about giving up; it’s about recognising that our worth isn’t tied to doing things flawlessly. This shift makes room for real joy and connection.

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Journal Prompts for a “Well-ish” Holiday

Here are three prompts to help you dive deeper into what a “well-ish” holiday means for you:

1. “What does a ‘well’ holiday feel like to me?”

- Describe what “well” means to you in the context of the holidays. Is it calm? Connected? Balanced? This prompt helps clarify your priorities and intentions.

2. “What expectations am I holding onto that I could release?”

- Reflect on traditions or pressures you feel obligated to follow. Do they bring joy, or are they simply habits? Identifying what you can let go of can free up space for what truly matters.

3. “What small moments bring me peace during the holiday season?”

- Think about moments that bring you a sense of calm – a morning coffee, a walk, or a favourite song. Recognising these moments can help you add intentional breaks to your days.

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3 Gentle Actions to Embrace “Well-ish” This Season

If you’re ready to create a holiday that feels balanced and manageable, here are three actions to try:

1. Set a “Good Enough” Boundary:

- Choose one area where you’ll consciously decide to aim for “good enough” instead of perfection. Whether it’s holiday cards, decorating, or event planning, see if you can let go of some pressure.

2. Make a “Not To-Do” List:

- Just as powerful as a to-do list, a “not to-do” list helps you identify things you can skip this season. For example, if holiday baking feels like a chore, give yourself permission to buy cookies instead!

3. Focus on Feeling Intentions, Not “To-Do’s”:

- At the start of each week, pick one feeling you want to cultivate – such as “relaxed” or “connected.” Let that feeling guide your choices, helping you say “yes” to things that align with it and “no” to things that don’t.

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Research Insights: Why Embracing “Well-ish” Can Improve Your Wellbeing

Studies from the field of positive psychology show that perfectionism is often linked with anxiety and burnout, particularly during high-stress periods like the holidays. According to Brené Brown, an expert in vulnerability and self-compassion, the drive for perfection can keep us disconnected from what truly matters and make us more self-critical.

By focusing on achievable goals and self-compassion, we support our mental and emotional well-being more sustainably. As Dr. Kristin Neff, a self-compassion researcher, says, self-kindness is a proven method for reducing stress and improving our ability to navigate life’s challenges. So by embracing “well-ish,” you’re not just making the season easier – you’re building resilience for the year ahead.

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A Holiday Season That Feels Like “You”

This holiday season, give yourself permission to be “well-ish.” Rather than perfect, aim for a holiday that feels good enough – one that brings joy without adding stress. By letting go of expectations, focusing on small wins, and embracing your imperfect self, you create space for a more meaningful celebration.

If you’re ready for more gentle tips like these, sign up for our free Well-ish Guide to Feeling Better this Holiday Season. Discover simple ways to create a holiday season that truly feels like you.

How to Feel Good Without Perfect: Simple Steps to a Kinder Holiday Season

With the holiday season approaching, many of us feel the pressure to make everything “just right.” Between the gatherings, gift-giving, and endless “to-do” lists, this time of year can bring both joy and stress. If the quest for perfection leaves you feeling more overwhelmed than content, it may be time to try a new approach.

Instead of aiming for a picture-perfect holiday, consider setting your sights on something kinder: simply feeling “well enough”. This shift is not about lowering standards; it’s about embracing what matters and letting go of what doesn’t.

Here, we’ll explore three simple ways to create a season that feels right for you, plus some journal prompts and gentle actions to help you connect to your own well-being.

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1. Release the Holiday “Shoulds”

The holiday season is full of “shoulds”: we should send out perfectly coordinated holiday cards, bake all the desserts from scratch, and make sure every gift is wrapped with care. But who set these standards? Often, they’re a mix of societal expectations, family traditions, and our own internal pressures. Research suggests that releasing perfectionist tendencies, especially around the holidays, can reduce stress and lead to greater happiness

Try This:

- Journal Prompt: “What holiday traditions actually bring me joy? What expectations do I feel pressure to uphold, and why?”

- Gentle Action: Pick one “should” you feel attached to (like baking cookies from scratch or hosting a large gathering) and ask yourself if it truly brings you joy. If not, consider letting it go or simplifying it to suit your current needs.

When we question the holiday “shoulds” and focus on what feels genuine, we create space for a season that aligns with our real desires rather than external pressures. Remember, there’s no one right way to celebrate – only what feels right for you.

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2. Permission to Pause

With all the activity and planning that comes with the holidays, it’s easy to lose sight of our own needs. But taking a small moment to pause can make all the difference. Research shows that small breaks throughout the day can significantly improve mood, focus, and overall well-being. Even a 5-minute pause can help reduce stress and reconnect you with yourself..

Try This:

- Journal Prompt: “How can I create moments of calm for myself this season? What would a short, meaningful pause look like for me?”

- Gentle Action: Practice a “holiday pause” by setting aside five minutes in your day to just breathe, enjoy a hot drink, or step outside. If a pause feels difficult to fit in, try integrating it into an existing activity, like focusing on your breath while waiting in line or slowing down during your evening routine.

These small pauses are powerful because they give us a chance to reconnect with ourselves amid the holiday bustle. Let this time be about you, free from any “shoulds” or “to-dos.”

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3. Prioritise Feeling Over Doing

It’s tempting to overfill our calendars during the holidays, saying “yes” to every invitation, event, and tradition. But when we focus solely on “doing,” we can lose sight of how we actually want to feel. Do you want to feel relaxed, connected, or joyful this season? Let those feelings guide your choices.

Focusing on activities that support our desired emotions (rather than obligations) leads to greater life satisfaction. When we let our feelings, rather than activities, shape our holiday experience, we find a balance that aligns with our true well-being.

Try This:

- Journal Prompt: “How do I want to feel during the holiday season? What small choices or actions can support these feelings?”

- Gentle Action: Set an intention based on how you want to feel. For example, if you want to feel connected, consider inviting a friend for a casual coffee date. If relaxation is your priority, block off an afternoon to enjoy a quiet activity you love, like reading or crafting.

By prioritising feeling over doing, we can create a holiday season that resonates with who we truly are. This approach allows us to say “yes” to what matters and “no” to what doesn’t – without guilt.

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Three Journal Prompts for a Kinder Holiday Season

Here are three journal prompts designed to help you dig deeper into what a “well enough” holiday could look like for you:

1. “What does a well holiday feel like to me?”

- Imagine your ideal holiday season. What stands out? What are you doing (or not doing) that makes it feel well? This prompt can help you identify specific actions or moments to bring into your season.

2. “What holiday expectations am I holding onto that I could release?”

- Often, we cling to traditions or expectations out of habit. Use this prompt to identify which of these serve you and which ones you might let go.

3. “What small moments can I add to my holiday routine to feel more balanced?”

- Small, daily rituals (like morning tea, evening journaling, or mindful walks) can help you stay grounded. Reflect on what these moments might look like for you.

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Gentle Actions to Try

If you’re ready to make this season feel more balanced, here are three simple actions you can try:

1. Create a “Yes-No-Maybe” List:

Make a list of holiday activities and label them as “yes,” “no,” or “maybe.” Keep only the “yes” activities on your calendar and see if the “maybe” ones can become “no” if they feel too much.

2. Practice the “10-Minute Reset”:

Give yourself ten minutes each day to pause, reflect, and reset. This could be a quick walk, journaling, or simply sitting quietly. It’s a way to ground yourself in the midst of the holiday pace.

3. Set a “Feeling Intention” for Each Week:

Choose one feeling to focus on each week of the season, such as “peace,” “gratitude,” or “connection.” Make small choices that nurture this feeling in your life.

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A Holiday Season That Feels Right for You

The holidays are a time for joy and connection, but they’re also an invitation to care for ourselves. By letting go of the “shoulds,” giving ourselves permission to pause, and focusing on how we want to feel, we can experience a season that’s kinder, calmer, and truly well.

If you’re ready for more ways to enjoy a well holiday season, sign up for our free Well-ish Guide to Feeling Better this Holiday Season. It’s packed with small, simple tips that help you focus on what really matters.

Feel Overwhelmed by the Holidays? Here’s a Guide to a Calmer Season

The holidays are a whirlwind—so much to do, so many people to see, and a thousand little things to keep up with. If the season feels more stressful than joyful, you’re not alone. Between shopping lists, holiday events, and the pressure to make everything “just right,” it’s no wonder that many of us feel like we’re barely holding it together. But what if this holiday season could feel different?

We’ve created something that might just help: The Holiday Well-Being Checklist, designed specifically for those of us who feel overwhelmed and stretched too thin this time of year. This checklist offers a simple, grounded approach to holiday self-care—real, practical steps that bring calm and joy back to your days.

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The Pressure of Perfect Holidays

It’s easy to feel that the holidays should look a certain way, especially with all the “perfect” holiday scenes we see online. But reality often looks very different. For most of us, holidays come with a blend of joy and stress, connection and overwhelm. Between family dynamics, financial pressures, and the endless to-do list, it’s hard to find a moment to breathe.

Self-care during the holidays doesn’t have to be another “should” on your list—it can be a way to find peace amidst the chaos. Our checklist helps you make small shifts that bring back a sense of ease and enjoyment, without adding any pressure or perfectionism.

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What’s Inside the Holiday Well-Being Checklist?

This isn’t your typical self-care list. The Holiday Well-Being Checklist is built to work with your real life, not against it. Each tip is about tuning into what feels good, letting go of stress where you can, and connecting with the moments that matter to you. Here are a few highlights:

• Set an Intention:

Start by choosing one word or feeling that you want to guide your season—something that speaks to how you want to feel, rather than what you think you “should” do.

• Choose What Brings Joy:

Curate your holiday influences. Follow accounts and content that inspire, uplift, and help you feel at ease, while letting go of anything that adds pressure or stress.

• Trust Your Needs:

Self-care doesn’t have to look a certain way. Our checklist encourages you to tune into what you actually need this season, whether that’s a moment of rest, a quiet evening, or a joyful connection.

• Embrace Imperfection:

The holiday season doesn’t need to be flawless to be meaningful. Our checklist reminds you that real moments are better than perfect ones.

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Why This Checklist Can Make a Difference

You might wonder how a simple checklist can make a meaningful difference during such a busy season. But sometimes, the most powerful changes come from small, intentional steps. By signing up for The Holiday Well-Being Checklist, you’ll receive realistic, down-to-earth guidance that doesn’t ask you to overhaul your life—just gentle shifts that can bring in more ease and enjoyment.

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Sign Up for the Holiday Well-Being Checklist

If you’re ready for a holiday season that feels more calm and grounded, The Holiday Well-Being Checklist is here to help. This guide is completely free, and it’s designed to bring a bit of real joy back to your holiday days.

Take a few minutes for yourself and sign up today to receive the checklist directly in your inbox. Let’s make this season a little kinder, simpler, and full of moments that feel truly good.

Rediscover Emotional Well-being This Holiday Season: Craft Your Unique Well-being Practice.

As the holiday season shimmers into view, it's time for joy, merriment, and connection. Yet, for many of us, it can also mean a rush of overwhelming to-dos, bustling crowds, and a whirlwind of expectations. Amidst this festive fervor, have you found yourself yearning for something else? Maybe even a way to reset and reach for better emotional well-being in your life?

Right now though it might feel like any well-being practices are drowned out by the clamor of daily life. You have no capacity to do more, stretching yourself even thinner; any wellbeing practices that you usually rely on can slip through the cracks of your busy schedule.

But what if this holiday season, we could approach taking care of ourselves differently?

Imagine if you had a set of well-being practices crafted exclusively for you—a bespoke prescription designed to fit into your life, your values, and your unique needs. Sounds intriguing, right?

Here at If Lost we’ve made it our focus to curate personalized well-being practices that can fuel curiosity, build self-acceptance, and bring a sense of play to our everyday lives.

This isn’t about conforming to preset ideals or adding more 'must-dos' to your list. It's about rediscovering what well-being needs to mean for *you*—finding tranquility in nature, fostering deeper connections with those in your life, or simply carving out moments amidst the holiday hustle.

In these 1:1 online personalized sessions, you’ll get to:

🌟 Dive into the Science of Well-being—unpacking the significance of such areas as nature, connection, and giving back—and understand how these elements can attainably weave into your everyday life.

🌟 Discover what drives your curiosity—what brings you joy and what lights that spark of excitement, as well as what's ready to be released.

🌟 Create a sturdy foundation within your routine, offering steadfast anchors to turn to when life feels uncertain.

Your takeaway? A tailored well-being practice that aligns with your daily life—a plan designed to rejuvenate your spirits during this bustling season.

Imagine savoring the holidays with renewed calm, energy, and curiosity. It's not just about surviving the festivities; it's about thriving amidst them.

Ready to make this holiday season about rediscovering your emotional well-being? Reach out to us and let's craft your unique well-being practice today.

Shop Small Special | Alice in Scandiland

When indie doors close at the most important time of the year (many shops make the bulk of their earnings in the run-up to the Holidays), our makers, shop owners, small-batch producers, and our communities struggle. In the weeks before Christmas, we’re focusing on independent stores that are anchor points in their neighborhoods, who support small themselves, and who make our worlds just that little bit better by existing.

In a moment when we can easily slip into the mass-produced at the expense of the environment, our makers, and ourselves — what do 80p black dresses really do for us and all those amazon deliveries we’re now relying on — we feel that shops that curate the handmade, that add to our high streets, and that give us places to go matter more than ever. If you can (we understand the competing pressures financially that many of us have this year), give independent stores in your community the gift of your support. 

What is it: Scandinavian design comes to Cornwall courtesy of award-winning style blogger Alice Collyer.  

Why you’ll love it: As with many independent stores, Alice in Scandiland started as a labor of love two years ago, when Alice decided to transform the inspiration for her blog and the vintage finds that she sold in her backyard She-Shed, into a bricks and mortar shop. Literally built out by Alice and her dad, Alice in Scandiland is very much an extension of her own home and life philosophy. 

Why we think it matters: Hygge. Lagom. Fitka. Scandanavian concepts in living that have caught our attention, and which have themselves spun mini industries. But take away the quickly produced books and listicles that cash in on cool new words, pare all the trend styling back and they represent enduring healthy approaches to life. Alice got there before most of us, embracing the cult around all things Scandinavian (yes, we know they are better at everything than us now) when she started to makeover her own home by taking the things away she didn’t need and immediately felt the benefits of living with less.  

Favoring a natural color palette and materials, integrating form with function, and bringing in light and nature where possible, Scandinavian design is all about creating a sense of stillness that is soothing in its calm. Its warm minimalism helps our environment too – items are made to last and owning less is foundational.  If we’re fortunate to be able to work from home (and still not resent it), how we create our home environments will make even more of a difference to how we function. Alice may have been having adventures in Scandiland for a while, but they are adventures we can now share in worlds of our own making.

In conversation with 91 Magazine Alice says: “I love to champion independent makers, they are keeping amazing skills and crafts alive, putting their heart and soul into their creations. I firmly believe that it is these carefully considered pieces that add the meaningful finishing touches to a home and that’s not something you can buy for £3 in Primark. I am a strong advocate of buying less, but buying better. 

It really doesn’t have to mean spending much more either, if you average it out over a year. It’s important that we all become more conscious consumers and support our local creatives. Add this with vintage, thrifted finds and it’s a total winner.”

In our gift guide: we recommend Sofia Lind’s white flower print, Laura Lane’s Cornish Textured Mug and for those thank you cards, Gemma Koomen’s note set.

How to bring this into your life: Want to recreate the pared-down look at home – think woven baskets, cozy textures, and handmade ceramics. Alice’s blog gives tons of tips. During usual times, Alice also acts as a small business mentor and hosts workshops including one on building as successful an Instagram platform as her own. 

 To find out more: Website / Instagram