Relax this Christmas with a 2023 Self-care Advent Calendar.

Last Updated on: 23rd November 2023, 03:40 pm

The holiday season can be full of joy and excitement, but it can also be very exhausting. To help you prepare for Christmas, I have created a self-care advent calendar from December 1st to 25th, you can download a printable version to mark off each day. I have some exercise suggestions, so remember to check with your doctor before doing these.

In case you need help with what to do for each daily suggestion, I’ve included some pointers below.

Write 3 things you are grateful for.

Expressing gratitude can help shift focus from negative thoughts to positive ones.  It can help reduce stress and anxiety and increase happiness and positivity. It can be as big or small as you like.

Buy yourself a Christmas present.

While you’re out Christmas shopping for friends and family, why not treat yourself to something special? Whether it’s a book you’ve wanted to read, a new shade of nail polish, or that top that’s been catching your eye for ages, you deserve to spoil yourself a little bit, too.

Catch-up with a friend.

Organise to meet someone who makes you feel happy.  You could meet up for a meal, coffee or a lovely walk.

Digital detox this evening.

Getting caught up on our devices late into the evening is easy. Try disconnecting for an evening and fully engage in your activities. Even if you’re chilling watching TV, try being fully present in the moment.

Get out in nature.

Go outside, take off your shoes and feel the grass under your feet.  Smell the flowers, look at the trees and listen to the birds. It is so calming to be present in the beauty of nature.

Add a gift to a wishing tree.

During Christmas, many charities, department stores, and local councils have wishing trees where you can donate to those in need. 

Write 3 goals for 2024.

With the new year approaching, it would be a good time to set a few goals for 2024.  Setting goals allows you to create a plan to achieve what you desire and helps you understand the steps needed to achieve them.

Meditate or read a book.

I put both here so you can choose which suits you more.  If you’re new to mediation but would like to give it a go try this 7 minute Meditation to Start Your Day, or if you would rather curl up with a good book, that’s perfect too.

Have a manicure/pedicure.

It’s the perfect time to treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, or both. You can do it in the comfort of your own home or visit a salon for some pampering. With an array of colour and design options to choose from, you can stay with for a natural look or go all out with some bold shades.

Enjoy an afternoon nap.

Put your phone on silent, find a relaxing place to lie down and have a lovely afternoon nap.  You may choose to lay on the couch or outside under a tree.  If you’re outside make sure you have a hat and sunscreen.

Do an at home face mask.

You can get creative with avocado and olive oil, or you can pop to the shops and choose a sheet mask. When you have your mask on, be sure to find a comfortable and relaxing spot to unwind.

Go for a walk.

Going for a walk can greatly benefit us both physically and mentally. You can try taking a stroll before or after work to relax and calm you mind.

Decorate your home & tree.

Getting into the festive spirit is easy with some Christmas lights and decorations. Listen to carols and decorate your home and tree. Spoil yourself with new decorations, or bring out your old favourites. You can choose to go all out with decorations or simply focus on a corner or fireplace.

Go for a massage.

Treat yourself to a massage to release any muscle tension.  Choose from a 15 minute neck and shoulder massage or spoil yourself with a full day spa treatment.

Make some Christmas craft.

If you’re unsure about what kind of Christmas craft to do, try a google or Pinterest search to see what catches your eye. Another option is to buy a couple of Christmas themed paint-by-numbers kits and invite some friends over for your own paint and sip party.

Turn on your favourite playlist.

Enjoy yourself and have some fun singing or dancing to your favourite playlist.

Photo by Valentina Dominguez on Unsplash

Do Christmas baking.

Christmas brings out the baker in all of us.  It is a fun time of year to get into the kitchen and bake delicious treats for ourselves, friends, and family.  You could make a simple yet scrumptious shortbread, fun themed cookies or challenge yourself to create a gingerbread house.  There are so many options to choose from.

Do breathing exercises.

Breathing helps to calm the mind. Check out this Headspace video to learn about the science of breathing and try the below themed box breath exercise.

Take a long bath.

Choose your favourite bath products, such as bubbles, salts or bath bombs.  Then, play some music, light candles and take a long relaxing bath.  If you don’t have a bath, you can still have a soothing shower by using a body scrub or shower oil. Afterwards, apply a beautiful moisturiser and take some extra time to relax on the couch.

Do a yoga class.

You could find a local yoga studio and attend a class or if you prefer there are many classes available on YouTube, such as Yoga with Adriene or Yoga with Kassandra.

Go out and look at the Christmas lights.

During Christmas, people and entire streets spend time decorating their homes with lights. Try a google search to find the best streets to take a wander to see Christmas lights in your city.

Take time wrapping presents.

Wrapping presents can sometimes be a last minute rush. This year spend some time to really enjoy the process.  Appreciate what you have bought for someone and put time into wrapping their gift.

Have a Christmas movie night.

Whether you prefer the timeless tales of A Christmas Carol and Frosty the Snowman, or the more modern films like Elf and The Grinch, there is a Christmas movie for everyone to enjoy. So, grab some popcorn, get cosy on the couch, and settle in for a fun movie night.

Enjoy a slow start to the day.

After a lovely sleep in, make a coffee or a pot of tea, prepare your favourite breakfast and relax into the day.

Enjoy a Christmas themed workout.

Put on your Santa hat and start Christmas day with a fun and themed workout. You will start the day feeling great and energised. You can find plenty of options on YouTube, or you can try this Get Fit with Rick Christmas Walking Workout.

I hope you really enjoy the Self-care Advent Calendar and feel a little less exhausted during the festive season. If you would like a printable version please fill in the form below (this will also add you to my email list).

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy 2024. xx