As November arrives, the world starts to speed up. Family plans, gatherings, to-do lists, and a growing sense of expectation can make it easy to put your own well-being on the back burner.
This blog is your gentle nudge to come home to yourself. We’re exploring down-to-earth ideas for staying grounded, rested, and connected through the holiday swirl. From tiny, 5-minute resets to boundary-setting tips and nourishing rituals, it’s all about finding pockets of peace in a full calendar. Let the season be softer.
What Real Self-Care Looks Like When Time Is Tight
Self-care doesn’t have to mean hour-long baths or luxurious spa days (though we’re big fans of both!). In the heart of holiday chaos, real self-care might look like:
- Saying no to one extra errand
- Taking a walk before checking your phone
- Sitting in your car in silence for five minutes before heading into the party
The goal? Tend to your nervous system in small, doable ways. These moments matter.
Protecting Your Energy at Family Gatherings
Let’s face it, family time can be beautiful and a lot. To stay grounded:
- Plan intentional solo time before or after big events
- Create a “buddy system” with someone who helps you stay regulated
- Step outside for fresh air when emotions get high
- Remind yourself: You’re allowed to take care of you
Boundaries aren’t walls, they’re invitations to deeper connection rooted in honesty and care.
Tiny Practices That Offer Big Calm
Inhale. Exhale. Here are a few micro-practices you can weave into your day:
- 4-7-8 breathing (inhale for 4, hold for 7, exhale for 8)
- Put your hand on your heart when you feel overwhelmed
- Notice five things you can see, hear, and feel in your environment
- Drink a warm cup of tea without multitasking
Just one of these can shift your whole mood in minutes.
Setting Boundaries Without the Drama
Setting boundaries doesn’t mean delivering dramatic speeches at the dinner table. Try:
- “Thanks for the invite, I’m keeping it low-key this year.”
- “I’d love to come, but I need to head out early.”
- “I’m not up for that, but I hope it’s wonderful.”
Clear, kind, and calm is the vibe.
Gratitude That Doesn’t Feel Forced
Gratitude is a powerful grounding tool, but it doesn’t need to be performative. Instead of a list, try:
- A photo a day of something that made you smile
- Saying “thank you” out loud for little moments
- Pausing to savor something beautiful: a leaf, a laugh, a bite of pie
Let it be real and imperfect. That’s where the magic lives.
Let the Season Be Softer
You don’t have to do it all. You don’t have to be everything for everyone. You are allowed to rest. To say no. To step back in. To feel joy. To feel nothing. To just be.
This season, may you come home to yourself again and again. Let it be soft.
Looking for a deeper reset before the holidays?
Join us Nov 14–16 or Dec 5-7 at our cozy fall/winter retreat at Engadine. Yoga, sound baths, tarot by the fire, and space to breathe. Bring a friend and save $200 each!
