HEALTH

The holidays are such a fun and festive time of the year! But between the end of the semester, family parties, long to-do lists and shopping for the perfect gifts for your BFFs, the start of winter break can be overwhelming, especially for those girlies who thrive on a little peace 'n' quiet.

Self-care is *so* important at any time of year, but it can get lost in the busyness of the holidays. Here are our top four ideas for low-key winter activities, so you can keep celebrating while taking some time for yourself. 

1) Go on a wintry walk

@mel.amartinez

Tbh, sometimes getting out of the house for a bit is just what you need. And the holidays are the perfect time to bundle up and go for a brisk walk outdoors! For extra festivity, you could walk around and look at the holiday lights in your neighborhood, head to a park with wintry scenery or browse around a shopping center where holiday music is playing.

Feel free to bring along bestie or two! But sometimes a walk is even more peaceful when you just have your own thoughts to keep you company. Plus, just being outside and getting fresh air and natural light can do wonders for your mental health.

2) Declutter your room

@potterybarnteen

This one might sound boring. But having a cozy place where you can retreat when things are getting a bit crazy is one of the best ways to stay calm and happy during the holidays. In fact, the simple act of tidying can be comforting in itself.

Try playing some holiday music and cleaning up, then decorating with fun holiday knick-knacks (we suggest candles and/or fairy lights for warm winter vibes!). If you feel like it, set aside a box of things to donate as you tidy up to help spread the holiday cheer.

3) Do some holiday baking

@mel.amartinez

Baking is such a cozy way to end a long day (or a fun weekend morning activity!). If it's too chilly to go outside, stay warm in the kitchen by baking some of your fave holiday treats.

You can drop off some of the finished goods to friends at their houses. Or if you have fam coming over, they'll def appreciate the time you spent! Even if you're a few days away from the height of celebrations, baking is a great reset that can help you calm down and stay happy before the big festivities.

4) Plan a holiday movie night

@vogue_haute

Sometimes, all you want to do is curl up under a blanket with a mug of hot cocoa. And couch-lounging and movie-watching is the perfect combo! Remember your fave holiday movies from when you were a kid? Now is a great time to plan a relaxing night watching them with your friends, fam or just by yourself. 

Follow us on IG for more self-care inspo @girlslifemag!

Read on for more holiday content!
🎄 5 holiday dessert recipes you need to start making every year
🎁 5 last-minute DIY holiday gifts
🕎 5 delish Hanukkah recipes

Slider image: @mel.amartinez
Top image: @shayrudolph

by Ava Slocum | 11/29/2023