Christmas break is finally here!
After weeks (or months) of late-night study sessions, exams, and deadlines, it’s time to pause, take a deep breath, and focus on the most important person—you.
But let’s be honest: as much as we look forward to the holidays, the break can sometimes feel like a blur.
Before you know it, the new semester is knocking on your door, and you’re left wondering, Did I actually rest?
This Christmas, let’s do it differently.
Let’s make it a time for recharging, reflecting, and reconnecting with what makes you feel happy and whole.
These 8 self-care tips will help you make the most of your holiday season.
1. Give yourself permission to rest
Here’s the thing about rest — it’s not something you have to earn. You’ve worked hard this semester, and you deserve to unwind without feeling guilty about it.
Sleep in. Take naps. Spend a day watching holiday movies in your comfiest pajamas.
Let your body and mind recover from the stress of school.
Studies show that sleep is essential for cognitive function and emotional well-being, so think of rest as recharging your batteries.
Pro Tip: Create a cozy nook for yourself with blankets, fairy lights, and your favorite snacks. Whether you’re watching Elf or bingeing a new Netflix series, make it a guilt-free zone.
2. Set boundaries with your time
The holidays can be hectic, filled with family gatherings, friend meet-ups, and endless plans.
While it’s great to connect with loved ones, it’s equally important to carve out time for yourself.
Ask yourself:
What do I really need right now?
If you’re feeling drained, it’s okay to say no to plans that don’t align with your energy. Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s self-care.
Make a point to schedule “me time” into your break.
Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or just sitting in silence with a cup of tea, these moments will help you recharge.
3. Move your body — but make it fun
Exercise doesn’t have to mean grueling workouts or sticking to a strict routine.
During Christmas break, focus on movement that feels joyful and restorative.
For me, that means stretching or yoga.
I’ve been hooked on following influencers like MadFit and Sanne Vloet, creating my own daily challenges to stay motivated.
Specifically, I adore these yoga poses and usually perform them in front of the fireplace.
Even 10 minutes of stretching can release tension and leave you feeling more energized.
Not your style?
Try something festive!
Ice skating, snowball fights, or even a winter hike can double as exercise and holiday fun.
4. Indulge in creative hobbies
When was the last time you did something purely for fun?
Christmas break is the perfect time to rediscover hobbies that make your heart happy.
For me, it’s photography.
I recently started using my family’s old film camera to capture everyday moments, and it’s been an incredible way to slow down and appreciate life’s little details.
Maybe for you, it’s painting, baking, knitting, or even writing poetry.
Here’s the magic: Hobbies let you create without pressure. There’s no grade or deadline—just the joy of doing something you love.
5. Connect with loved ones
As much as self-care is about taking time for yourself, it’s also about nurturing relationships that uplift you.
Use the break to reconnect with family and friends in meaningful ways.
Plan a game night with your siblings, bake cookies with your parents, or meet up with a friend you haven’t seen in ages.
These moments of connection can remind you that you’re supported and loved, even when life gets stressful.
Reflection moment: Who in your life always makes you feel lighter and brighter? Reach out to them — you might be surprised how much a simple conversation can recharge your spirit.
6. Unplug from screens and embrace the present
Let’s be real: most of us spend hours scrolling through social media or binge-watching shows during our free time.
While it’s tempting to stay glued to your screen, too much of it can leave you feeling drained and disconnected.
Challenge yourself to unplug for at least part of the day. Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb,” and focus on being present. Go for a walk, read a book, or spend time doing something hands-on, like decorating cookies or wrapping gifts.
Pro Tip: Create a “screen-free zone” in your home — maybe your dining table or bedroom—where technology takes a backseat to real-life connections.
7. Reflect and set intentions for the year ahead
Christmas break is the perfect time to pause and reflect on the past year.
- What were your biggest wins?
- What challenges did you overcome?
- What lessons did you learn?
Take some time to journal your thoughts or create a vision board for the upcoming year.
For me, using Notion to organize my goals has been a game-changer. Breaking big goals into smaller, actionable steps makes them feel more achievable.
Remember, you don’t have to plan out your entire life—just think about the small changes you want to make in the coming months.
8. Treat yourself — because you deserve it
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as indulging in a little treat that makes you smile.
For me, that’s perfecting my latte art with my Delonghi Dedica espresso machine.
Whether it’s a heart, tulip, or something abstract, every cup feels like a tiny celebration.
For you, it could be anything — a bubble bath, a new book, or even splurging on that cozy sweater you’ve been eyeing.
Here’s the thing:
Treating yourself reminds you that you’re worth it, and sometimes, those small acts of kindness to yourself make all the difference.
Bonus Tip: Celebrate your progress
Before the break ends, take a moment to acknowledge how far you’ve come.
You survived another semester, tackled challenges, and kept going even when it was tough.
And that’s indeed worth celebrating, right?
Make a list of three things you’re proud of this year — big or small. Let those victories remind you of your resilience and potential as you step into the next chapter.
Conclusion: Make this break about you
Christmas break isn’t just about catching up on sleep or finishing holiday to-do lists—it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself.
It’s about finding joy in the little things, from cozy movie marathons to rediscovering hobbies that make your heart sing.
Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
When we take the time to rest, reflect, and recharge, we’re not just preparing for the next semester—we’re nurturing the version of ourselves that’s ready to thrive.
So, what’s your first step?
Pick one (or all) of these tips, and give yourself the Christmas break you truly deserve. You’ve earned it.