As we approach the end of the year, there is a pressure to fill every moment with activities which can have us feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Between family gatherings, gift shopping, and festive outings, the pace can leave us exhausted rather than rejuvenated.
So what if this holiday season you gave yourself permission to do absolutely nothing? Embracing the art of slowing down isn’t just indulgent, it’s essential for your wellbeing.
Here’s why holidays are good for you when you allow space for rest and simplicity.
The Science of Stress and Cortisol
Our bodies are wired to handle stress in small doses. However, when we’re perpetually busy, cortisol—the hormone responsible for the stress response—can remain elevated. High cortisol levels over time can contribute to a host of health problems, including anxiety, fatigue, and weakened immunity. Research shows that intentional periods of rest can lower cortisol levels, helping your body return to a state of balance.
When you take time to unwind over the holidays, your nervous system shifts from the fight-or-flight mode to the parasympathetic “rest-and-digest” state. This is where true healing and restoration happen. By prioritising rest, you’re not just avoiding burnout, you’re actively supporting your body’s ability to repair itself.
The Gift of No Plans
In a culture that values productivity, the idea of having no plans might feel uncomfortable. But it’s in these unstructured moments that magic can happen. With no schedule to adhere to, you’re free to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones in a meaningful way.
Studies in neuroscience suggest that downtime is crucial for creativity and problem-solving. When your mind is at ease, your brain’s default mode network becomes active. This network is responsible for self-reflection, memory consolidation, and generating new ideas. By giving yourself space to just be, you allow clarity and inspiration to surface naturally.
Connection Through Presence
One of the most profound benefits of slowing down is the opportunity it provides for deeper connections. When you’re not rushing from one obligation to the next, you can be fully present with the people who matter most. This presence fosters genuine interactions, strengthening relationships and creating lasting memories.
The holidays are a perfect time to practice mindfulness—whether that means savouring a quiet morning coffee, listening intently to a loved one’s story, or simply sitting together in comfortable silence. These moments of presence can bring a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.
Practical Tips for Embracing Stillness
If the thought of doing nothing feels daunting, start small. Here are some simple ways to incorporate rest and relaxation into your holiday season:
- Set Boundaries: Politely decline activities or events that don’t align with your desire for calm.
- Schedule Downtime: Block out time in your calendar for rest, just as you would for any other commitment.
- Practice Mindfulness: Take a few moments each day to focus on your breath or observe your surroundings without judgment.
- Limit Technology: Disconnect from screens to fully immerse yourself in the present moment.
- Engage in Simple Pleasures: Read a book, take a leisurely walk, or enjoy a warm bath.
Why Holidays Are Good for You
When we allow ourselves to step off the treadmill of constant activity, we open the door to true restoration. Doing nothing isn’t lazy, it’s a powerful act of self-care.
This holiday season, give yourself the gift of stillness. Embrace the calm, and watch how it transforms your body, mind, and relationships.
Let go of the urge to plan every moment. Trust that in the quiet spaces, you’ll find clarity, connection, and joy. After all, the holidays are not just about doing, they’re about being.
Want some ideas on how to find create calm when you most need it? Download my FREE GUIDE.
