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'Tis the season for giving...the gift of presence

Making time for self-care — plus, resources you can share with your clients

The holiday season often comes wrapped in ribbons of joy — but also tangled in stress, unrealistic expectations and exhaustion. What if, this year, you could focus on reducing stressors and prioritizing wellbeing, connection and quality time? Imagine slowing down and approaching the holidays with more heart and less hustle, remembering the most valuable gift you can give is your full, present self.

Magellan joins with you in planning for emotional wellbeing and celebration during National Stress-Free Family Holidays Month. May your holidays — and those of your friends, family and clients — be full of peace, joy and presence.

5 simple ways to nurture yourself each day

• Start each day with intention. Even 10 minutes of quiet can shift your energy.
• Say no, gracefully. Boundaries are a beautiful act of self-respect.
• Establish tech-free time. Be authentically there. Listen fully and laugh freely.
• Move your body mindfully. Stretch. Walk. Breathe.
• Rest without guilt. Renewal comes through sleep, stillness and true downtime.

Choose peace over perfection

You don’t need a perfect dinner or fancy decorations to make the holidays special. Focus on connection, laughter and shared moments. Order takeout, wear comfy clothes and do what nourishes you, not what drains you. In a season full of noise, choose presence. Give yourself permission to rest, breathe and just be, so you can show up fully for the ones who matter most.

Need inspiration for gifting presence during the holidays?

Unwrap these tips for yourself, or share with friends, family and clients (PDF) using materials from our Holiday Emotional Wellbeing Toolkit at MagellanHealthcare.com/holidays.

You’ll find a holiday self-care and joy map activity (PDF), a “slow down and savor the moment” poster (PDF), and Zoom backgrounds in English and Spanish to help spread the message of presence and wellbeing.  

Self-care is essential, not selfish

Too often, we put ourselves last on the to-do list. Remember, your emotional wellbeing is the foundation that allows you to show up for those you love.

What is your favorite way to stay centered during the holidays and beyond? Share your thoughts with us at Editor@MagellanHealth.com.