Here’s how to stay grounded, energized, and actually enjoy this season: • Decide what matters most. Pick the 2–3 things that truly bring you joy — and let the rest be optional. When everything is a priority, nothing is. • Protect your time like your peace depends on it (because it does). Create buffer days on your calendar. Say “yes” slowly and “no” kindly. Boundaries are a gift to future you. • Keep your basic health rituals non-negotiable. Sleep, movement, hydration, real meals — these are the anchors that hold everything else steady. Don’t drop them just because the calendar gets busy. • Limit the comparison trap. Perfect décor and magical family moments are curated online — not real life. Focus on connection, not performance. • Check in with yourself often. Notice when your red flags start waving. If your body and mind say “pause,” listen. Rest is productive. • Make room for meaning. Joy doesn’t require a to-do list. Slow moments, laughter, gratitude — those are the real holiday highlights. The holidays can be wonderful — and overwhelming. Here’s how to move through the season with more joy and less stress: • Get clear on what matters. Pick the few traditions or gatherings that genuinely light you up. When you let go of the rest, you create space for meaning instead of pressure. • Honor your capacity. Your time and energy are limited — protect them. Leave blank space on the calendar, say no when needed, and build in recovery days. You’ll enjoy the “yeses” more when they’re intentional. • Keep your wellbeing anchored. Sleep, hydration, movement, and real nourishment are the foundation of your holiday resilience. These simple habits keep your mood, energy, and immune system strong. • Stop the comparison scroll. No one’s holiday looks like it does online. Release perfection and focus on presence. Joy doesn’t need a filter — it needs connection. • Check in with yourself. If you’re feeling drained, tense, or checked out, pause. Rest isn’t a luxury — it’s protection from burnout. • Prioritize genuine joy. Slow, simple moments are often the ones that stay with us. Laugh more. Breathe deeper. Let yourself enjoy the season instead of powering through it. 88 DECEMBER 2025 | INTHEVUE.COM If you have any suggestions on what you would like to see in Clean Slate each month, feel free to email me at [email protected]. Please put “VUE reader” in the subject. The information provided in this article is provided for educational purposes only and does not substi- tute for professional medical advice.
