The holiday season is known for joy, celebration, and memory-making — but it also arrives with full calendars, long to-do lists, and the subtle pressure to show up everywhere, for everyone. Somewhere between gift shopping, meal planning, attending events, and trying to create “perfect moments,” many women find themselves exhausted rather than energized.
Long gone are the days when I feel like I need to do the most in order to enjoy something. This week, I will be putting up our Christmas tree and lighting my favorite Volupsa Candy Cane candle while aiming to get my house in the Christmas holiday spirit. If I am being honest, this year has been very “heavy,” and I found myself reflecting and journaling to make things feel a little easier. I have included some tips for you to consider along the way in the hopes that you will consider some form of rest this season. Honestly, it’s imperative as we approach another year.
But here’s the truth we don’t hear often enough:
Resting during the holidays is not only allowed — it’s transformational.
Slowing down is an act of wellness. It’s an act of self-respect. And most importantly, it’s an act of presence.
In the midst of the season’s magic, you deserve spaciousness too.
🌿 1. Rest Helps You Actually Enjoy the Holiday Moments
When you’re rushing, you move from one task to another without truly experiencing anything. Rest interrupts that cycle.
Taking a moment to breathe, sit, stretch, sip something warm, or simply be still allows you to enjoy:
The smell of holiday spices
The sound of laughter
The glow of soft lights
The comfort of being near people you love
Rest deepens the moment.
It helps you fully receive what the holidays are meant to bring.
❤️ 2. Your Nervous System Needs It — Especially This Time of Year
Holidays often come with extra emotional weight: expectations, family dynamics, and the pressure to “make everything perfect.” When your nervous system is overloaded, you may feel:
Irritable
Tired
Overstimulated
Disconnected
Claiming pockets of rest — even 10 minutes — resets your entire body.
Think:
✨ A midday nap
✨ A calm morning cup of tea
✨ A quiet walk
✨ Turning your phone off for an hour
These micro-rests lower cortisol and keep you grounded.
💫 3. Rest Supports Your Wellness and Your Glow
Running on empty drains your energy, mood, creativity, and even your skin. When you give your body rest:
Your hormones balance
Your digestion improves
Your mood lifts
Your sleep deepens
Your skin looks brighter
Rest is a beauty treatment.
Rest is a wellness practice.
Rest is a form of luxury.
🕯️ 4. You Don’t Have to Earn Rest
As women, many of us grew up believing we must do enough before we deserve to slow down. But during the holidays — and year-round — rest is not a reward.
It’s a requirement for your:
Energy
Joy
Clarity
Health
Creativity
You don’t have to “finish everything” to take a break.
You can slow down right now.
✨ 5. Rest Creates Space for Peace, Reflection, and Gratitude
Some of the most meaningful moments of the holiday season happen when we’re still:
Journaling quietly in the morning
Listening to peaceful music
Sitting by the window with soft lighting
Reflecting on the year
Feeling gratitude
Rest invites peace — the kind of peace that no gift or event can replace.
🌟 6. You Show Up Better When You Rest
Rest isn’t selfish.
It’s what allows you to:
Be present with your family
Show up with genuine joy
Make memories that feel real
Feel connected, not drained
When your cup is full, you naturally share more love and energy with others.
🎁 A Gentle Holiday Reminder
You don’t need to be everywhere.
You don’t need to do everything.
You don’t need to perform holiday perfection.
You’re allowed to enjoy the season at your own pace.
The holidays aren’t meant to overwhelm you — they’re meant to nourish you.
And sometimes the most beautiful part of the season is when you put your feet up, breathe, and rest.
You deserve that softness.
You deserve that peace.
You deserve to rest and enjoy.
Disclaimer: This site shares general health and wellness information for women and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, or treatment plan.
What do you plan to do for the holidays this year? Any plans for a relaxing getaway or a spa day? I would love to plan both! Whatever you deccide, please take time for yourself, however that may look for you! And DO NOT feel guilty about your decision!