It’s my absolute favorite time of year, but that doesn’t mean I don’t feel a little… let’s say unhinged now and then. Between hosting Thanksgiving, searching for thoughtful gifts, and slipping in a few surprise urgent-care visits, it’s the season when my spirit is high and my cortisol levels are even higher. If you’re feeling the holiday rush or looking for a little holiday stress relief, you’re definitely not alone.
Last week was especially rough — one of those classic weeks where everything that could go wrong absolutely did. By the end of each day, I needed a hard reset. So I leaned into what I could control: Hallmark movies, a cozy read, luxurious skincare, soothing background music, and a favorite guilt-free boxed dessert.
If you’re craving small moments of peace or easy holiday stress relief, here are the five little joys helping me stay centered through the December chaos.
1. Christmas Hallmark Movies on Repeat
I’ve never been a Hallmark movie kind of gal, but lately? They’ve been exactly what my nervous system needs. Something light, and uplifting to follow at the end of a long day. No stress-inducing, action-packed shows. Just cozy Christmas vibes that help me unwind and actually relax before bed.
Sometimes the best holiday self-care is turning off your brain and letting something feel-good play in the background.
2. The Lost Bookshop: My Escape Read
To keep the magic going, I just finished The Lost Bookshop. It blends mystery, magic, romance, and a behind-the-scenes look at book dealing across Europe. Also, makes for a great gift for any book worms in your life.
If you’re searching for a cozy book to curl up with during the holiday rush, this one is a perfect escape. Reading is one of my favorite grounding rituals when everything else feels chaotic.
3. Results by Nature Quench and Regenerate Oils
We recently interviewed the founders of clean skincare brand Results by Nature, and they generously gifted me a few products to try. I’ve been using their Quench and Regenerate oils constantly. They’re simple, incredibly hydrating, and soothing after a long day.
I love how my skin glows with each application. It’s a small, luxurious ritual that doubles as end-of-day self-care especially when I’m feeling overwhelmed or drained.
4. Christmas Jazz on Spotify
Lately, I’ve been starting my mornings with the Cozy Christmas Jazz playlist on Spotify. It’s the perfect calming background while I prep for the morning school rush. Gentle, comforting, and festive without being chaotic — exactly the energy I need in December.
5. Simple Mills Chocolate Chip Cookies
These Simple Mills Chocolate Chip cookies are my go-to “better-for-you” dessert when I want something sweet but not overly processed. Made with nuts, seeds, coconut sugar, coconut oil, arrowroot, vanilla, sea salt, baking soda, cream of tartar, and rosemary extract, they taste amazing and never leave me feeling sluggish. The BEST part is that I don’t have to bake anything
Since coconut sugar has a lower glycemic impact, it doesn’t spike your blood sugar the way refined sugar does. So yes, it is possible to eat half the box and still feel pretty decent about it.
Staying Sane During the Holiday Rush
The holidays are wonderful, chaotic, magical, and exhausting, often all at once. These little pick-me-ups have been helping me feel more balanced when the holiday overwhelm takes over.
