The funny thing about winding down the year…we actually get all wound up.

Busy. Frantic. and eventually…sick.

Ugh.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the holiday hubbub (I feel ya, sister), here’s a short list of things you can do to make it a little easier on yourself.

Pick one thing that sounds like it’s doable and see if it helps.

Listen to Music.

They say that vinyl outsold digital for the first time in 2016. But it’s okay if records aren’t your thing. Pop on some tunes and listen. Dance. Sing (especially if you think your voice sucks. Sing LOUDER.) Need some playlist inspiration?

Eat Simple.

Once upon a time, I loved to cook every day. But when things get busy…keep it simple. Like, popcorn for dinner simple. Lately it’s been sliced veggies, cheese and dips.

It’s appetizers, really. But it keeps us fed. Breakfast for dinner is also a fave. And yes, we order pizza too. Because…pizza.

Say No.

You don’t have to do All. The. Things.

And you don’t have to be everything to everyone. Promise.

It’s okay to say no to the 14th holiday gathering you’ve been invited to. Skittish about telling people no? Here’s a guide…but promise you’ll ignore the bad graphic. Yeeeesh.

Drink Up.

When we’re busy, we forget to hydrate. While I don’t subscribe to the idea that everyone needs 8 glasses a day, most of us could stand to drink a little more water. Fresh lemon and ginger in warm water is AMAZING.

It helps to strengthen digestion and keeps your hands warm.

Thought I was talking about something else? Tasty adult beverages are lovely too. Alternate with water to stay hydrated (and less likely to tell that certain someone EXACTLY what you think of their political leaning).

Give Yourself Permission.

Sometimes you just can’t get to it all. That’s okay. There’s so much to do, and no one ever gets to all of it. Make some space.

TAKE A BREATH, DAMMIT.

Yeah, I knooooowwwww.

But hear me out on this one.

When you’re busy and pissy and freaked out about all the shit you gotta get done, one breath is sometimes all it takes to simmer down.

Take one slow breath in, shrugging your shoulders up as high as they’ll go, and then exhale and let em drop.

Just do it, okay? And repeat as needed. Many more breath break ideas over here.

There you have it.

Did you pick something to do?

Good. Now go do it.

Take care of you. You’re the only you we’ve got!