A Mindful Advent Calendar

Self-Care During the Festive Season: 

A Mindful Advent Calendar for 2024

The run up to Christmas can be a whirlwind of activity—shopping, parties, family gatherings, and endless to-do lists. It’s a magical time, but it can also be overwhelming. So this year, let’s focus on self-care and mindfulness with a unique twist: a self-care advent calendar! From December 1st to Christmas Eve, why not treat yourself to small, meaningful moments of self-care every day. Let’s dive in:

Sunday December 1:Take a Walk in Nature

Wrap up warm and head outside for a mindful walk. Feel the crisp air, see the way the light filters through the trees, and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot. Try to use all of your senses and notice everything.

Monday December 2: Set Boundaries
Practice saying no to things and people that feel like too much. It’s a tricky one but our time and energy are too precious!

Tuesday December 3: Have a Mindful Cuppa
Make your favorite tea or coffee and drink it without distractions. Focus on the aroma, taste, and warmth. Drink it slowly and enjoy…

Wednesday December 4: Go to Bed Early
Treat yourself to an early night and enjoy the luxury of a full, restful sleep. Try a few drops of Lavender or Chamomile essential oil on your pillow to help you to relax.

Thursday December 5: Meditate
Take five or ten minutes for a guided meditation. Apps like Headspace or Calm can help if you’re new to this and there are some lovely tracks on You Tube.

Friday December 6: Write in Your Journal
Reflect on the positives of your day or jot down all the little things you’re grateful for. It’s a grounding practice that boosts positivity and helps to clear the mind before sleep Zzzz….

Saturday December 7: Say Yes to Fun
Accept an invitation or plan something for yourself that brings you joy. 

Sunday December 8: Enjoy a Lie-In
Give yourself permission to stay in bed a little longer. Savor the cosiness and start your day slowly…

Monday December 9: Book in for a Massage
Treat yourself to a massage with your favourite Aromatherapist! Or why not give yourself a soothing self-massage of your hands or temples with your favourite product.

Tuesday December 10: Aromatherapy Bath
Light some candles and add soothing essential oils like orange, ylang ylang or frankincense to a warm bath. Relax and unwind.

Wednesday December 11: Daily Gratitude Practice
Write down three things you’re grateful for today. Focus on the best bits of your day.

Thursday December 12: Buy Yourself a Present
Choose something you love, wrap it up, and save it for Christmas morning. Happy Christmas!

Friday December 13: Book a Reflexology Treatment
Book in for a session, it’s deeply relaxing and great for overall well-being.

Saturday December 14: Practice Positivity
Start your day with positive affirmations such as “I am calm”, “I’ve got this” or “I feel happy today”. Repeat through the day to give yourself a positivity boost.

Sunday December 15: Self-Care Sunday 
Dedicate the day to whatever restores you – whether it’s relaxing, reading, or pampering yourself.

Monday December 16: Buy Some Flowers
Brighten your space with some fresh flowers. 

Tuesday December 17: Aromatherapy Foot Soak
Treat your feet to a warm soak with some essential oils. Try peppermint and lime for an energy boost.

Wednesday December 18: Plan Something for New Year
Book a trip or day out, or plan a cosy day at home. Having something to look forward to lifts your spirits.

Thursday December 19: Cook and Eat Mindfully
Prepare a delicious meal and savor each bite. Focus fully on the flavors and the experience.

Friday December 20: Solo Coffee or Lunch Date
Take yourself out for a coffee or meal. Enjoy the solitude and treat yourself.

Saturday December 21: Hot Chocolate and a Book
Curl up with a hot chocolate and a book or favourite magazine. Pure bliss.

Sunday December 22: Make a Cocktail/Mocktail
Experiment with festive drinks. Sip slowly and enjoy!

Monday December 23: Call a Friend
Instead of texting, pick up the phone and have a good natter with someone you love.

Tuesday December 24: Reflect and Recharge
Spend time journaling about the year and set some gentle intentions and goals  for the year ahead. Celebrate all your achievements this year!

These little moments of self-care aren’t just for December—they can inspire you to create mindful practices for every month. See Facebook and Instagram for a daily reminder of each day’s mindful moment!

The festive season should be about far more than just giving to others, but also about looking after and giving back to yourself.

Merry Christmas and here’s to a mindful, joyful December! ❤️

© Carol Bailey 2024