Is it just me or does it feel like Christmas is sneaking up on me this year? We who run small businesses feel it hard when that happens. After all—it’s not just our families depending on us for a merry holly-ified kind of Christmas, it’s our employees as well. What gets lost in it all? Ourselves, if we’re not careful. Remember that no one enjoys Christmas as much when you’re strung out and over stressed. Here’s some cures for those Christ-stressed woes.

Let’s start with what self-care is all about. It’s not selfish, it’s essential. It’s you tapping into what creates peace and harmony within yourself and your home and your business. Shopify listed nine ways you can include yourself in the list of people you take care of, and they include:

1.      Don’t forget to take a breath. A little mindful breathing settles the nerves when things go awry.

2.      Sneak in a little exercise. Those endorphins lower your stress level.

3.      Pack in the zzz’s. Yes, sleep more when you have more to do. It boosts your productivity.

4.      Fuel up your own tank with more regular meals and healthy snacks.

5.      Hook up with a friend. A hug, caring words, smiles and laughter lowers your stress levels.

6.      Don’t hole up in your house. Engage in activities. You may think it feels stressful getting out in the cold, but it will make you feel better.

7.      Tidy up your workspace.

8.      Treat yourself to that doughnut or cup of latte.

9.      Tune in to your own mental health.

Going forward, take some time to map out ways to solidify self-care into your daily routine. It’s not surprising that physical and mental care top the list, but don’t to guard your emotional health as well. Say goodbye to a toxic relationship. Set tighter boundaries for family relationships before you gather for the holidays. Start a journal. Write down affirmations to solidify where you’re at in life. Ask for help—don’t try to provide the entire feast. It’s not too late to buy a pie or ask someone to bring sides. These sound like simple things, but it’s the simple things that add up to rob us of our peace through the holidays.

Another area of self-care comprises your environment. I find it helpful to make my bed each morning before I dress. Develop a rhythm for keeping on top of clutter and mete out the chores so they aren’t so overwhelming. Find a new channel of soothing music to listen to in the background. Set up some wholesome routines for bedtime.

Another often overlooked aspect of self-care concerns your money, or with this economy, dwindling money at the end of the month. Take some time to look at ways to curb usual bills. Worrying about money is robbing yourself…rein in your spending and cut the luxuries. You’ll rest better, feel better and live longer.

Let’s ring in the new year with new habits.