The holidays are meant to bring connection, gratitude, and that fizzy, joyful magic that makes everything feel a little more sparkly. But sometimes that “magic” feels less like bubbles of champagne and more like a tight drumbeat in your chest.
This season, stress and joy often coexist—especially for women, who research shows tend to shoulder the bulk of the cooking, cleaning, planning, hosting, and the emotional labor of “kin-keeping.” Yes, it can be meaningful and fulfilling. But it’s also a lot of work.
So if your holiday sparkle is starting to feel like survival mode, pause. Take a slow breath. And explore these science-backed strategies to help you shift from “just getting through it” to actually feeling supported, grounded, and well.
1. Try a full-body meditation.
Feeling scattered? Whether you’re navigating long airport lines or facing a holiday that looks different without someone you love, full-body meditation can help you slow down and realign. This simple practice gently brings awareness through the body, helping your mind, emotions, and intuition reconnect. Just five to ten quiet minutes a day can ease stress, restore calm, and help you tune into what you need this season. Check out how to get started here.
2. Spend time with a pup.
You know who doesn’t give two poop-bags about whether or not the decorations are hung? Your sweet pup. In fact, research shows that spending time with pets can decrease cortisol (the stress hormone). Consider these ideas for going on an outdoor adventure with your four-legged friend.
3. Get a good night’s sleep.
Better sleep is nature’s cure-all. It has the power to improve concentration, regulate mood, reduce stress, and strengthen the immune system (an extra bonus during flu and cold season). Try these tricks to improve your nightly hibernation. Fun fact: Science says wearing Merino to bed can actually help you sleep more deeply.
4. Venture outside, even when it’s chilly.
Frosty temps and unpredictable weather can make outdoor adventure feel like a chore. But when have you ever regretted an early morning hike or a run spent catching up with a friend? Getting outside can boost energy while decreasing negative emotions. Explore expert advice for making winter adventure even more fun—and why Merino is a must-have for when temps drop or the forecast keeps you guessing.
5. Prioritize self-care.
Between wrapping gifts at midnight and navigating family group chats that, honestly, should require a referee, the holidays can get chaotic fast. The beauty of self-care is that it can be whatever you want it to be. Pick one small ritual just for you and return to it when you need a break—or even better, before you do. Get inspired by proven self-care techniques.
6. Dream about travel.
If there are moments when you want to escape, release some pressure by planning a trip. Even if it’s just the travel equivalent of window shopping, dreaming about a getaway can create a sense of joy and anticipation. Consider these ideas for women-centered wellness retreats, adult summer camps, and incredible hike-in lodges.
7. Celebrate your friends.
During moments of stress, let the power of female friendship sustain you—and spend some time nourishing them, too. Whether it's cheering on a friend who crushed a goal or sending a handwritten note, celebrating the women in your life strengthens connection, boosts confidence, and spreads a ripple of joy that will carry into the new year and beyond.
8. Dip your toe into cold plunging.
Curious about cold therapy? Now’s the time to give it a just-above-freezing whirl. Even a short cold shower can help reduce inflammation, improve recovery, and give your mood a noticeable lift. Start slow, focus on your breath, and see how it feels to step just a little outside your comfort zone.
9. Spend quality time solo.
Between work parties, cocktail hours, family gatherings, and white elephant shindigs, the holidays mean a lot of time together. All the more reason to spend some time with yourself, a practice which can increase awareness, lower stress, and actually help improve relationships in the long-term. Try these tips for solo hiking, or even taking a little trip with just you and your carry-on.
10. Take the stress out of holiday gifting.
Finding the perfect present for every woman on your list can be daunting. Lower your stress and get her something that she’ll love for many seasons to come, made from naturally sustainable Merino. Here’s our simplified guide to thoughtful gift-giving for different types of loved ones.
We want to know. How do you thrive during the holiday season? Please send us a note anytime to info@branwyn.com or DM us on Instagram at @branwynofficial. Oh, and happy holidays!
