A new kind of self-care worth trying

It’s not just self-care; it’s self-care with holiday vibes. 
If December has you stressed, there’s no better time than to focus on your health during the holidays. Staying physically healthy is one thing, but we also need to stay mentally strong to get us through the late nights, the extra socializing, family gatherings, and indulging in more goodies than usual. 
This is where festive self-care comes in.
We all need to take time for ourselves, whether it’s five minutes or twenty. Taking a moment to enjoy a cup of coffee, sitting down to read a chapter of a book, or calling a friend will give you the break you need. 
If you want to explore self-care further, some might suggest treating yourself to a small indulgence for the sake of self-care.
Bestselling romance author Jennifer Shirk posted on Instagram recently that buying books is a form of festive self-care. How perfect is that? It doesn’t matter if it’s a peppermint latte or a new mug; everyone’s perspective is different. Self-care means something unique to everyone. Add a little festive cheer to your book buying (a holiday romance, anyone?) or get fingernails painted like candy canes like Olivia’s in my book, The Twelve Gifts of Christmas—and you’ve got some festive self-care!

​Whatever your self-care routine is, or if you’re looking to change it up, making time to do something you love is key. Take the time to indulge in a hobby or work on a puzzle, read a blog post, or bake some cookies. Whatever you find comforting is a great way to enjoy 'you' time. 
This past year, I’ve written and published two romance books, revised two new books, and learned how to metal stamp. It’s given me the creative space I need from writing when my story isn’t flowing the way I want it to, or I can’t get the words down, and I’m stuck on a plot. Being creative can lead to so many other outlets. It’s just a matter of exploration and allowing the freedom to enjoy. It doesn’t mean you have to be an expert; it means you are enjoying your time and you’re open to relaxation. Whether it’s painting, gardening, knitting, or cooking—it’s an art, and when you have constant sparks of inspiration and an imagination, you find a place you’re most comfortable. 
During the holiday season, get comfortable with your art and support it with good sleep, 
eating nutritious foods, sipping water throughout the day, and exercising. Doing what you enjoy is the best refresher and pairing it with a good health routine is something you can feel good about.