A Calm, Cozy Christmas: My Self Care Ritual for the Holidays

As soon as you get to December…it’s louder. More dinner parties, more events, more pressure, more everything and everyone. And the funny thing is, this is also the time we crave quiet the most. Over the years I’ve realized that if I don’t intentionally create space for calm, this season will swallow me up, and I won’t feel great heading into January. So I’ve built a little ritual for myself, nothing fancy, nothing complicated, and nothing expensive. Just simple habits that help me feel grounded, present, and actually enjoy the holidays instead of rushing through them.

For me, it starts with slowing down the pace. I try to protect my mornings as much as possible. I wake up, drink water, walk and feed Nico, make my coffee, and sit in silence, enjoying the view. No phone. No emails. I try to do at least ten minutes but I’d be lieing if I said this was consistent…sometimes it’s 5 minutes. But even 5 to 10 minutes like this changes the tone of my whole day. It stops that stressed feeling before it even starts, and I feel more in control of my energy.

I’ve also shifted to comforting skin care. Winter always makes my skin feel a little tighter and more reactive, so I keep it simple. Hydrating cleansers, rich moisturizers, and formulas that make my skin feel soothed. I take my time applying everything, almost like I’m telling myself to slow down too. It’s such a small thing, but it actually makes a difference when you force yourself to slow down and enjoy the process.

December can make you feel pulled in every direction, and movement helps me reconnect with myself. It reminds me that even in a busy season, my wellbeing still matters…especially since this is the month most of us fall off the wagon and eat loads. I do my best to keep my workouts consistent, but if I can’t due to travel I’ll still do my stretching and maybe a 10 minute home Pilates session.

And then there’s the environment I create at home. I like soft lighting, warm throws, and a clean space. It instantly calms me. I’ll always light a candle at sunset, usually something woody or slightly sweet, and let it fill the room while I work or read. Slowing down your surroundings slows down your mind.

I also give myself small boundaries around social plans. I love seeing family and friends, but I’ve learned that saying yes to everything drains me. Now I space things out. I give myself evenings to recover. I stay home when I can. It’s not being antisocial…it’s self awareness. And to be honest, it’s where I’m happiest.

As for the actual holiday days, I try to be present. I cook with intention, I take photos without overthinking it, and I pay attention to the moments that feel warm…conversations, laughter, small details. These are the things that stay with you.

This ritual isn’t about doing more or completely changing your routine. It’s actually about doing less, but with more care. December moves so fast, but I’ve realized that I don’t have to. Honestly, these small changes actually makes the season feel more meaningful.

This is what keeps me grounded, and it’s why I actually look forward to this time of year now. Try slowing down in small ways. You’ll be surprised by how much it changes your whole experience.