My Holiday Survival Guide
Nov 29, 2025
Now, you’ll know I’m not about “shoulds.” But I’d like to think the holidays should be a time to slow down. After all, it’s the season of lights, laughter, and time off with those you love, right? ;-)
So why is it that all too often we find ourselves more exhausted than we were before: worn thin by expectations, overcommitments, and endless tasks. Tired and frazzled from keeping everyone happy.
Well, this year, instead of endless to-do lists, what if you could give yourself the space to savor the season instead of just surviving it? Instead of just pushing through, and feeling wrung-out and resentful, you could actually be present enough to sip your chai, and dream by candlelight?
Well, if that sounds like the kind of holiday you want, I’ve got you.
Below is a list of the practices and products I truly love, and that help me survive the holiday season with a little less stress.
And, I’m not talking performative rituals, or surface-level wellness either. These are the things that, however small, help me feel a little more whole, and a little more human whatever life asks of me.
Savour: Micro-Moments of Regulation
Every morning I start my day with at least 35 mins to 1 hour of yoga and meditation. For me, it’s a non-negotiable, but I’m aware this is a luxury; if you have a busy schedule, children to look after, baking to do, or a party to plan for, you just may not feel this is possible.
But, remember: five intentional minutes is all you need, to give yourself a reset:
- Light a candle (classic or holiday blend are my favorites)
- Place your hand on your heart
- Take three slow breaths; breathe from the top of your head down to your toes
- Now, open your eyes, and notice: what do you smell? feel? Hear? Savor the beauty in your space
*Tip: Keeping a journal and pen next to your candle, can signal to your body it’s time to rest, reflect and help you become more attuned to how you feel.
3 more quick resets I adore:
- Dance for 5 minutes to shake off tension.
- Step outside barefoot for 30 seconds and feel the earth.
- Eat one meal in total silence, and taste every flavor.
Sip: Chai
There’s something deeply regulating about wrapping your hands around a warm mug and taking a slow, intentional sip. And it’s not just for cold climates, when I celebrate here in India, I’ll be sipping chai. It asks you to pause, to hold the warm cup between your palms, to let steam rise and open your senses before that first sip. Presence. Comfort. Pleasure. Nourishment.
Some of my favorites:
- Tulsi Masala Chai: Adaptogenic, calming, delicious.
- Numi Rooibos Chai: Naturally sweet, caffeine-free.
- Chocolate Chai: Calming, delicious and low caffeine.
Sparkle: When the Party Starts
Of course, true radiance comes from within, and learning how to nourish and honor your body will give you the real glow. But, we all need a little sparkle every now and then. So when it’s party time, these are some of the clean beauty, confidence boosting products I swear by:
Goop Microderm Glow
Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop has some beautiful, natural beauty products. This exfoliant microdermabrasion is a powerful facial in a little jar. My skin is softer, smoother, and more luminous afterward - the results are instant and Glowy.
Ilia is a stunning brand, light, natural, vegan, non-comedogenic, and safe for my sensitive skin. (Plus, with SPF 40, it’s perfect to wear all year round.)
RMS Beauty Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow
Pretty sparkle, whether you’re out shopping all day, or dancing the night away!
Gwyneth’s done it again, with a trio of lip balms rich in botanical oils, and gorgeous colours like Peony and Tomato, my absolute favorite lipstick these days.
I love this Award winning mascara - even with planet-friendly packaging!
So, whether you’re taking five minutes to reset, or getting ready to entertain, I hope there’s something in here that will help you feel a little more nourished and rested this holiday season.
Love and blessings,
Naomi
