The holiday season can be a time of joy, connection and reflection. But it can also bring extra demands, schedule changes and emotional fatigue. 

Between work, family commitments and the weight of the season, it’s easy for normal routines to fall away. But maintaining a few simple routines can help preserve balance and well-being during busy seasons like this.

Here are a few gentle reminders for the weeks ahead:

1. Protect your core routine

Keep one or two small habits that help you stay centered. Perhaps it’s quiet time before a shift, a cup of coffee in peace, or a short walk during your break. If you have a dog, he or she will probably remind you about walking routines! These small anchors remind your mind and body that stability still exists, even on hectic days.

2. Practice flexible self-care

Your self-care may look different during the holidays, and that’s okay. Even brief pauses — taking deep breaths between tasks, stretching, or sharing a laugh with a coworker — can reset your nervous system and restore perspective.

3. Hydrate, take your breaks, repeat

The simplest acts often make the greatest impact. Drinking water, eating regularly, and finding moments to rest help sustain focus, compassion, and energy throughout long or demanding days.

4. Set healthy boundaries

Give yourself permission to say “no” when needed. Protecting your time and emotional energy allows you to show up more fully where you’re most needed — both at work and at home.

You matter

Taking care of your own routine isn’t selfish — it’s essential. When you keep to the routine that brings you peace, you protect the best version of yourself.  And that benefits everyone around you.

We're excited to bring you this series, Navigating the Holidays, from Salem Health's Staff Engagement and Resiliency Advocate team. Our SERAs hum away in the background, helping us through good times and bad times.