I wrote this article just over one year ago, but it is still very timely and appropriate. It is hard to get back into normal routines after the fun and festivities of the holidays. Hopefully these 5 tips will help you to hold on to the holiday spirit as they have helped me!
- Holding on to my nephew (who is now 1 year older than in this photo)
1. Stay closely connected to family and friends. Part of what makes the holidays special is the time spent with family and friends. Don't let that taper off as you settle in to work, school and daily routines. Plan regular brunches, dinners and coffee dates in advance to get something on the calendar that you can look forward to. Remember to keep in touch with faraway friends with more that just a once-a-year holiday card.
2. Keep enjoying warm drinks and tasty treats. My husband makes a spicy and delicious apple cider that he mulls on cold afternoons and evenings. The lovely aroma permeates our apartment and a hot mug is so comforting while sitting reading magazines or watching a movie. Who says you can only bake your favourite cookies during the holidays? Bake up a batch and share with your closest friends.
3. Hibernate. Instead of fighting winter, work with it. Make a list of books you want to read and movies you want to see and make it your goal to get through as many as possible before Spring hits. Stay in your pj's a little longer and enjoy a drawn out morning with coffee and the paper. Bundle up in cozy sweaters and scarves. Start that hobby you have been contemplating but haven't gotten around to.
4. Get outside. Completely the opposite (but complementary!) to my suggestion above. Many people are affected by SAD (seasonal affective disorder) in winter and if you work in an office with little light, you should make the effort to get some sunshine every day. Take a quick walk at noon to get your lunch. On weekends, shop in an outdoor shopping area, rather than a mall, weather permitting. Try to take advantage of snowy climates with skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking day trips.
5. Don't stop giving! Whether it is a perfect gift for your mom, a thank you card to your boss, or a food basket for a family in need, giving just feels good. Drop a card to a friend you haven't spoken to in a while, volunteer for a charity you are passionate about, and keep telling people in your life how much you appreciate them. Giving is always in season.
6. Remind yourself that after winter, comes spring! Although it can seem endless (especially in Canada!), winter does eventually end. Remind yourself that the snow will melt, buds will emerge on the trees, and the air will be warm once again.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I am so looking forward to spring... but I could definite agree with hibernating for now! lol
I love you for this post. Warm drinks are an essential to keep enjoying even after the holidays - they bring a bit of Christmas spirit back into your life with each sip!!