Here we go, Mamas. It’s our Superbowl. That sprint that starts at Halloween and culminates in New Year’s celebrations… well except in Louisiana because then we have Epiphany and Mardi Gras season… but I digress.
The merry magic-making holiday sweep is a chaos of epic proportions. After the pre-game of cooking all things delicious for Thanksgiving, it’s time to start round 2: sugar cookies, gingerbread men and their homes, hot chocolate, apple cider, and — if you’re lucky — whiskey snowballs. Then it’s on to curating decorations to help your home feel like it fell smack out of the Northpole, shopping like Christmas dreams depend on it, and making magical new traditions like Magic Gingerbread Men. Seeing the magic reflected in our children’s eyes makes the hustle and bustle worthwhile.
This year, things may probe even more difficult or overwhelming. Between issues like COVID-19 and its health and economic impacts, and the ever-looming school shutdowns, our stress levels hit a 10 in March and haven’t gone down much since.
So this holiday season, I encourage you to intentionally set aside some time to rest.
I know, haha very funny. But for real. Do it.
Mine was the long weekend of Thanksgiving. I tracked no food and completed no workouts. I took naps every day and did things that made me happy. Things like decorating our home for Christmas, baking and eating cookies with my family, and reading a book. Guess what happened? I felt rested. My hormones leveled off and I didn’t feel rage simmering just below the surface. I laughed a lot and rediscovered my joy. I felt happier and closer to my husband and children. I read Christmas books with the kids and reminisced with them on Christmas past. I feel refreshed and energized heading into the Christmas crunch. I also gained two pounds but who cares? Finally, I can say, not me. It was all worth it.
So Mamas, take the time. Rest, and ready yourselves for this season so you can remember the magic and enjoy it fully as a Merry Mama.
