3 Secrets for Loving the Holidays: Wise Women Over 50 Get Ready for 2025
π² Keep Weight Off | π² Reduce Stress | π² Stay Energized
Hello, my radiant ladies! π
Are you ready to step into the holiday season with more joy, energy, and calm than ever before? This time of year often comes with its fair share of magic and madness, but I’ve learned that a little intention can go a long way toward helping us savor the season.
Talk about STRESS!
After being hacked and losing all my FB friends and fans, I had to create an all new page and profile. Please help me rebuild !
Please friend me and like my page.
With great gratitude for your support π
Please like my page
Thank you so very much!
Now: Today, I want to focus on something we all could use more of during the holidays: stress reduction.
But before we dive into tips and strategies, let me share a little about what’s been going on in my life lately because if you’ve been feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelm, know that you’re not alone.
What’s Happening in My World
This past week, I found myself staring at my calendar, wondering how in the world I was going to fit it all in. Between planning the family gathering, volunteering at the local food bank, and helping my grandkids with their holiday crafts, my days were jam-packed.
And while I love every part of the season, the sparkling lights, the festive music, the excuse to bake way too many cookies it’s easy to feel stretched thin. I’ve had moments when I’ve had to pause, breathe, and remind myself: This season isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection.
So, I made a choice. I decided to lean into practices that help me feel centered and joyful. And guess what? They’ve been working!
5 Simple Stress-Reducers to Carry You Through the Holidays
Here are the tools I’ve been using to stay grounded, which I know will help you, too.
- Affirmations: Start Your Day with Positivity
Every morning, I take a moment to center myself with an affirmation. It might sound simple, but these little phrases can have a big impact.
Here’s one I’ve been loving lately:
“I embrace this season with peace and joy. I am enough, just as I am.”
Say it out loud, write it in your planner, or repeat it in your mind whenever the holiday frenzy starts to creep in. Affirmations are like little mental resets; they help us reframe the chaos and focus on what truly matters.
- Gratitude: The Magic Mindset Shift
Gratitude has been my anchor this season. Every evening, I jot down three things I’m grateful for in my planner. Some days, it’s as simple as “the way the sunlight hit the snow” or “a kind text from a friend.”
When we focus on gratitude, we train our minds to notice the good. And during the holidays, there’s so much good to see if we take the time to look for it.
- Prioritize Sleep: Rest Is the Best Gift
I know, I know it’s tempting to stay up late wrapping presents or squeezing in one more holiday movie. But here’s the truth: nothing throws off our stress levels faster than skimping on sleep.
Lately, I’ve been treating my evening routine like a non-negotiable appointment. A cup of herbal tea, my favorite cozy socks, and a quick journaling session before bed all helps me wind down and get the rest I need to tackle the next day.
- Meditation: Find Your Calm in the Chaos
Meditation has been a game-changer for me this holiday season. Even just five minutes of stillness can make a world of difference.
I like to use guided meditations (there are so many great apps out there!) or simply sit quietly and focus on my breath. It’s amazing how quickly this practice helps me feel more centered, even when my to-do list is a mile long.
- Reaching Out: Connection Is the Heart of the Season
Read more
The holidays are about togetherness, but it’s easy to let busyness keep us from connecting with the people we love most.
This year, I’ve made a point to reach out to those I care about whether it’s sending a thoughtful card, making a quick phone call, or setting up a coffee date. Even small gestures can remind us of the warmth and love that make this season so special.
What I’ve Learned (and What I Hope for You)
These practices have taught me that the holidays don’t have to feel overwhelming. When we focus on what truly matters, peace, connection, and joy we create a season that nourishes us rather than drains us. It’s about finding small moments of calm amidst the busyness and allowing ourselves to embrace imperfection.
If you’re feeling pulled in a million directions, remember that you don’t have to do it all. Prioritize what fills your heart, whether that’s spending time with loved ones, enjoying a quiet cup of tea, or saying “no” to things that don’t serve you.
I encourage you to pick just one of these stress-reducers and give it a try. You might be surprised by how much calmer and happier you feel when you take even a small step toward caring for yourself. After all, the holidays aren’t just about giving to others they’re also a time to give yourself the gift of balance and joy.
Let’s Look Ahead to 2025
As we prepare to step into a new year, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The holidays are a special time of reflection, a chance to celebrate the moments that made the past year memorable and to dream about what lies ahead. This season reminds us to pause, cherish connections, and focus on what truly matters.
For me, the key to making 2025 a success lies in intentional planning and mindful habits. I’m using my Zesty Life Planner to stay organized, track my goals, and ensure I’m taking steady steps toward the future I envision. Alongside this, I’m continuing my daily affirmations and gratitude practice, which help me maintain a positive and grounded mindset no matter what challenges come my way.
I’m also making self-care a top priority. Whether it’s through quiet moments with a good book, enjoying brisk walks in the fresh air, or indulging in festive treats without guilt, I want to enter the new year feeling energized and inspired.
Let’s make 2025 the year we truly embrace our best selves. It all starts now with a holiday season that feels joyful, meaningful, and aligned with the life we want to create.
- Using My Zesty Life Planner to stay organized and focused on my goals.
- Continuing my daily affirmations and gratitude practice to keep my mindset positive.
- Prioritizing self-care so I can enter the new year feeling energized and inspired.
Your Turn: How Are You Reducing Stress This Season?
I’d love to hear from you! What are your go-to practices for staying calm and centered during the holidays? Feel free to hit "reply" and share your thoughts. I read every message and love connecting with you.
And if you’re looking for a way to bring more intention and joy into your life, check out the [Zesty Life Planner]. It’s more than a tool, it’s your partner in creating a life you love.
An Affirmation for You
As you move through this holiday season, carry this affirmation with you:
“I am present in each moment. I let go of stress and embrace the joy of the season.”
Here’s to a holiday filled with peace, connection, and just the right amount of sparkle.
With gratitude and hope
Your Zesty Friend & Mentor,
Sharon North Pohl πΈπ
P.S. You’ve got this, my friend. Let’s make this holiday season and the year ahead our best yet. π
