Taking time out for yourself might be the last thing on your mind when there’s presents to wrap and Christmas cocktails to be had, but a hectic festive season is all the more reason to slow down and book in a night of R&R. So sit back, relax and learn how to truly treat yourself this Christmas.
1. Pamper yourself peaceful
There’s something about an un-chipped manicure or glossy blow-dry that can make you feel pulled together, even when your to-do list is longer than Santa’s Christmas list. Book into your local salon for a few hours of dedicated ‘you time’ and leave with super soft locks and polished nails that’ll keep you feeling fresh for days.
2. Give in to Christmas cravings
Christmas is a time for indulgence, so hustle your family out of the kitchen and prepare your favourite Christmas snack – just for you. Dig out your festive crockery and plate up crackers with Wensleydale and cranberry cheese, luxury mince pies or even bake some nostalgic Christmas cookies. Wash it all down with a mulled wine or festive Yuletide gin and tonic.
3. Turn down plans
Baby it’s cold outside, so don’t feel bad about turning down another night of Christmas cocktails for a cosy evening on the sofa. If your social calendar is filling up faster than a stocking on Christmas eve, take time out for yourself and cosy up with a NOW TV Entertainment or Sky Cinema pass to recharge your batteries (and finally catch up on Modern Family) ready for the real celebrations.
4. Set the scene
An uninterrupted evening on the sofa can be so much more special with the right home accessories. Transform your sofa with a faux fur throw or luxe cushions, light a Christmas-scented candle and drape a star garland over your mantelpiece for a festive interiors update that will make you feel like you’re staying in a boutique hotel.
5. Switch off – completely
You might be at home with the front door firmly shut, but with your mobile next to you it’s far too easy to get invested in planning a family outing or a WhatsApp group chat. Instead, turn your phone completely off while you settle down on the sofa to ensure that nothing interrupts your NOW TV movie night. With Beauty and the Beast streaming from Christmas Day, you won’t want to be disturbed.
6. Shop your own wish list
The list of people you need to buy Christmas presents for never seems to end, but there’s always room to add your own name to the list. If you see a necklace you love while buying earrings for your sister then don’t feel bad about treating yourself, or take advantage of the 3 for 2 offer in Boots; pick up a treat for yourself alongside a Sanctuary gift set for your mother-in-law and a Jamie Oliver chopping board for your brother.
7. Wrap up warm
Your bedtime routine might consist of throwing on a comfy ‘vintage’ t-shirt with some bobbled pyjama bottoms, but this winter pick up a new pair of matching pyjamas like this blue satin pair from Next and add cosy socks and a cashmere jumper for a luxurious lounge look.
