The holiday season can be stressful, and it’s often difficult to prioritize our mental well-being amidst all the hustle and bustle. Taking time to do things you enjoy can help lower stress levels and keep you in a happy, positive mood. Whether it’s your favourite time of year or your least favourite, it’s important to stay active, keep your spirits up, and carve out a little time for yourself.
Prioritizing self-care during this hectic time of year can help preserve your well-being and ensure you step into the new year feeling balanced and refreshed. Self-care doesn’t always have to mean indulging in pampering, though that can certainly be a treat. It can simply be taking a quiet moment for yourself, or setting aside time each day to focus on the things that bring you joy and relaxation.
I've put together a list of my five favourite budget-friendly activities that I enjoy during the holiday season, guaranteed to keep me in a cheerful mood all season long. Some of these ideas are completely free, while others require a small cost. The list includes a mix of festive activities for those who love the holidays and non-holiday options for when you need a break from all the seasonal excitement.
The first thing on the list is definitely not for everyone but is probably my most favorite thing to do during the winter!
Go for a Winter Picnic
Spending time outdoors on a beautiful South Cariboo winter day offers countless benefits. Not only does it keep you active—which releases endorphins and serotonin, your body’s natural mood boosters—but it also helps reduce stress and anxiety. Sunshine boosts serotonin levels and provides vitamin D, essential for keeping bones healthy and strong.
Why not pack a lunch or enjoy a wiener roast over an open fire in a scenic outdoor spot? It’s a fantastic way to spend the day, whether you’re venturing out solo or with a group of friends. A winter picnic is sure to brighten your day and leave you smiling.
Put on Some Holiday Music and Dance Like No One’s Watching
Creating a holiday playlist is a great way to get into the festive spirit and inspire you to dance like nobody’s watching. There are plenty of free music streaming services with pre-made holiday playlists, or you can have fun curating your own.
If you enjoy watching music videos, platforms like YouTube also offer a wide selection of holiday tunes to stream. So turn up the volume, let loose, and shake what your mama gave you—it’s the perfect way to boost your mood and enjoy the season!
Volunteer
If you have extra free time and want to give back to your community, volunteering is a fantastic way to do it. Not only does volunteering reduce stress, but it also promotes positive, relaxed feelings and activates the reward centres in your brain. Plus, it simply feels great to give back!
Finding a place to volunteer can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. Fortunately, the South Cariboo offers plenty of wonderful opportunities to share your time and spread kindness. Specifically in 100 Mile House, there are several options that cater to various interests. Organizations like the 100 Mile Nordics, the 108 Mile Heritage Site, the Red Cross, KidSport, and Emergency Support Services are always looking for helping hands, just to name a few. Doing a quick Google search will put you on the right path to finding the perfect place for you to give back.
Watch Your Favourite Holiday Movies
Hosting an at-home movie party and watching all your favourite Christmas movies is a perfect way to spend a snowy day indoors. Create a blanket fort or a cosy nest with pillows and blankets, pop some popcorn, make a cup of hot chocolate, hit the play button, and relax.
There are countless holiday movie options available on various streaming services, and you can also rent holiday classics from the local library. It’s a fun and festive way to pass the time and get into the holiday spirit!
At-Home Spa Day
Why spend a fortune at a spa when you can pamper yourself in the comfort of your own home? With a little quiet time, you can create your own relaxing spa experience.
Start by making an easy DIY sugar scrub using simple ingredients: mix 1⁄4 cup of sugar, 1⁄2 cup of coconut oil, and a few drops of essential oils or some lemon zest. This scrub will exfoliate and moisturize your skin. If you’re looking for alternative recipes, a quick online search will provide plenty of options.
Fill the tub with bubbles, whip up a mocktail or cocktail, and settle in with a good book or your favourite holiday show. For an added treat, give yourself an at-home manicure or pedicure. Nail polish is inexpensive and paired with your homemade sugar scrub and a nail file, you’ll have everything you need for a little self-care.
All the supplies you need can be found at local discount stores, pharmacies, or grocery stores. Nothing beats a rejuvenating spa day without ever leaving the house!
Whether you choose to incorporate a few of these ideas into your holiday traditions or create your own list, you're sure to add some cheer and joy to your season.
Remember to be kind to yourself, practice self-care, and reach out for help if you need it.
If you need support, you can contact CMHA South Cariboo for mental health support at 250-395-4883. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
