Finding Time for 'Me' Time

The holidays are a magical time of year. People are focusing on giving, showing their loved-ones that they care, and spreading joy that they most likely neglected the other 11 months of the year. It's also a time for stress, bad eating habits, missed workouts and anxiety. I'm making it a point this holiday season to take care of myself!


And how do I plan to do that? It's simple to explain (less simple to do):

1) Don't focus on food!
This is a little tip I got from my Tone It Up Girls Karena and Katrina. They made a great point in saying that so many holiday functions are centered around the food. Instead we should sit back, relax and enjoy our friends, loved ones, time to ourselves...whatever makes you happy!
2) Keep working out
Sure, our days are shorter and I more than anyone know it's hard to get up in the morning to sneak in a workout. But regardless how much it sucks to sit up and put our feet on the floor it's important to remember it will not be regretted. A quick morning routine will not only start my metabolism but also wake me up and get me ready for the day spiritually and mentally. Later in the day when I have more time, whether on my lunch break or after work, I'll complete a more thorough routine.
3) Enjoy Holiday Treats in Moderation
I'm not turning my back on homemade treats that are only available this time of year. But I will make sure I'm not over doing it.
4) Focus on giving thoughtful and personalized gifts. It's not about how much you spend but that you know someone well enough to be able to get something they'll enjoy. It's about thoughtfulness.
5) Enjoy Time with My Husband
At parties I'm going to make it a point to socialize with him as well as other people. He's very important and deserves my attention. I'm also going to make sure that we don't miss out on our regular movie nights on the sofa or wine on the back patio. Our time together is invaluable.
6)Find Time for 'Me' Time
My "me" time is a quiet run, time alone in the gym, singing/dancing in the bathroom while getting ready, playing with my pets, or reading a book.

This last item brings me to the real reason for this post. I've discovered recently that one of my favorite things to do alone is read, provided I have the right book. I even joined a book club to ensure that I'm reading like I said I would! Our book club meets once a month, over hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, to discuss our recent read. This month we read The Beach Trees by Karen White.

I really enjoyed it and could appreciate the protagonist's transition from her detached life in the Northeast to a slower life down South. The book also shed light on the deeply emotional act of rebuilding after Katrina and the strength and hope people in Louisiana and Mississippi have. I think a trip to Biloxi (one of the settings) may be in order.

Before reading The Beach Trees my book club read The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I wasn't yet part of the group but everyone insisted I would love it so I gave it a shot. Let me tell you they were right! I couldn't put it down and finished it in just 4 days (which is super fast for me)! After reading the first book I quickly moved onto the second (Catching Fire) and am now reading the third (Mockinjay). I think once I'm done with the trilogy I'll write a proper review.

Reading allows me to unwind and detach myself from everyday stresses. With the right book I become completely immersed in the storyline. I'm glad I finally learned that this is a healthy form of relaxation for me. At the risk of being a complete poser, my New Years Resolution for 2012 will be to read at least 1 book a month. This was one of my best friend's resolutions last year and she actually stuck to it!

I'm focusing on me- not in a self absorbed, the world revolves around me kind of way- and it feels good. What are you going to focus on this Holiday Season?