Sharina Desai

My first semester of college is coming to an end. Finals are almost done, projects are being turned in, and I am so ready to go back home for the holidays. In preparation for going home, I put together a few tips to help you reach your ultimate state of relaxation over the holidays.

1. Have your Christmas Movies Ready

This is a great excuse to binge on some of your favorite holiday movies with a bowl full of popcorn and a nice mug of hot chocolate. Some of my personal favorite movies are…

The Nightmare Before Christmas, because who doesn’t love a good Tim Burton movie.

The Polar Express, because it is an absolute essential to get into the Christmas spirit.

and I know this is not a holiday movie, but Ratatouille carries a very lighthearted homey vibe, which makes it an important contribution.

2. Start Baking

The holidays wouldn’t be the holidays if there weren’t any sweets involved. Baking cookies or pastries is a fun and creative way to help relieve any pent-up stress or anxiety. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Get your friends and family involved. Try new things, don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone.

3. Self Care is the Way to Go

It’s easy to forget about yourself during this time of the year, which is why it is important that we learn to prioritize our needs. This could be really simple. All you have to do is throw on a face mask, meditate, light some candles, and make yourself a bubble bath. Whatever works for you. Self-care is supposed to be a time where you focus on yourself, so make sure you make it about you!

4. Help out your Local Community

There is a huge need for volunteers during the holidays. Volunteering at local food banks or animal shelters is a perfect way to forget about our own problems. Lending a hand brings a positive impact and helps to build closer connections. You get to experience and be a part of bringing smiles to people’s faces. After all it is the season and time to be giving and bringing cheer.

5. Do things you enjoy with your loved ones

Check-in on friends and family members. Spend time with them. Bring out your holiday traditions. Play board games, watch movies, build gingerbread houses, go see the lights, and most importantly, decorate your Christmas tree. Lay back and enjoy your time off. You deserve it 🙂