Why is it that this time of year, the calendar fills up and your energy disappears? December comes in like a whirlwind, dishes pile up, and suddenly you're wondering when you signed up to be the world's busiest elf. Seriously?!? If you're like most people, your own wellness gets pushed way down on the list just because there's too much to do. However, ignoring yourself this time of year is the fastest route to burning out before the big day even arrives. But there's the holiday secret nobody tells you.

Yet, if you're anything like most people, you keep pushing harder, giving more, and telling yourself it's worth it — even as you ignore the warning signs from your mind, body, and spirit.

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But here's the brutal truth nobody wants to admit:

If you don't care for yourself first, there won't be anything left to give.

This isn't just feel-good fluff. It's a critical holiday survival strategy. Think of it like this: you cannot refill anyone else's cup if yours is bone dry.

"Rest isn't a luxury or a reward—it's a divine directive." ~ Kristianne Wargo

The biblical invitation in Matthew 11:28 lays it bare: "Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Beyond faith or philosophy, this is science. Chronic stress, burnout, and exhaustion wreck your immune system, crush your joy, and hijack your ability to connect with the people you love. The holiday season isn't just about getting through December—it's about laying the foundation for your whole year ahead.

What you need to do is start now, and not wait until the new year. Resolutions come and go. But you have one mind, body, and spirit.

Reclaim your power this holiday season!

The K.I.S.S. ~ Reclaim your power!

This is all about what you have control over. You can't control the inventory for the gifts you want to buy. You can't control the attitudes of those around you. You can't control traffic. You can't control the weather.

BUT you can control yourself and choose to reclaim your power this holiday season to make it enjoyable from a healthy point of view.

Here are the three most essential ways:

1. Prioritize Rest Like Your Life Depends On It

Put rest on your calendar with the same urgency as your meetings. Sleep, pause, and deep breathing aren't optional—they're your survival tools. Even a 10-minute mindful break can reset a stressed-out mind and body.

Say no to non-essential plans that drain you and yes to moments that restore you.

2. Nourish Your Body with Purpose, Not Guilt

Forget crash diets or "detoxes" after the fact. Fuel yourself with whole foods that energize. Skip empty calories disguised as "holiday treats" and give your body real nutrients instead. Hydrate like it's your job and notice how much more vibrant you feel.

Your body should serve your goals, not sabotage them.

3. Create Space for Joy and Connection, Not Obligation

You don't have to do all the things or please everyone. Cut out the noise and focus on moments that bring real joy—whether that's a quiet cup of tea, a walk outside, or meaningful time with loved ones.

Curate your holiday experience with intention—because joy is the best kind of self-care; what's the real reason for the season?

"One step at a time leads to miles of greatness." ~ Kristianne Wargo

This season, let those steps be gentle but determined. Your mind, body, and spirit deserve a radically different December—one decorated from the inside out.

No more chasing calories or commitments that don't serve you. It's time to build a foundation of wellness that fuels your greatness beyond the holidays and into every day that follows.

This year, make your holiday survival your secret weapon. You aren't just surviving December—you're mastering how to show up fully, fiercely, and joyfully for everything and everyone that matters.

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"

#WellnessWednesday #CreateYourNow #HealthAndWellness

💍 The Christmas Ring by Karen Kingsbury: (https://karenkingsbury.com)

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Cover Art by Jenny Hamson

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Music by Mandisa - Overcomer

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Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.