During the holidays, your to-do list may seem never ending. There are presents to buy, errands to run, and activities and events to attend. It might seem impossible to prioritize rest, but it’s actually necessary to preserve your energy and mental health. Here’s how to structure your time to prioritize rest during the holidays.

Block Time Off on Your Calendar

In order to prioritize your rest during the busyness of the holidays, you have to set aside time for yourself. It might sound silly to block off time to rest, check in yourself, and do something kind for yourself, but if you don’t, it can be easy to allow it to slip through the cracks. Block out time for a morning walk, an afternoon coffee, or an early evening wine night with your friends. No matter how hectic your schedule gets, make time for yourself.

Learn to Say No

Another way to prioritize rest during the holidays is by learning to set boundaries. Remember that “no” is a complete sentence. You also do not need to give an explanation when you decline an invitation. You can kindly set boundaries and prioritize balance and healthy boundaries.

Reset Every Morning

Check in with yourself at the top of each day. This might look like meditation, mindfulness, nature walks, or prayer. Whatever is in your practice and personal belief system, prioritize a time of quiet to recharge and reset every morning. Assess how and where your heart and mind are and what your priorities are for the day.

Identify Exceptions

After setting your boundaries, another tool to prioritize rest is identifying exceptions. This could be a situation where you don’t make plans on the weeknights during December, and you set an exception for family activities. Another example might be committing to setting aside quality time with friends once a week, but you make an exception when friends come into town for the holidays. Know your limits and understand there is room for flexibility.

Establish a Start and Stop for Each Day

Lastly, when prioritizing rest during the holiday season, be in tune with your physical needs and when you require rest and quiet. Establish a time frame for your day. Schedule the times you start your day and end your day. Commit to not making plans prior to the start time and after the end time. During those quiet hours, prioritize self-care and rest.

Rest