The holiday season should be a time to relax, unwind, and spend time with loved ones. However, we know that the reality is a little more stressful. Preparing for the holidays can be sometimes a little too busy and unpleasant, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Let’s try to slow down a little this year, and truly enjoy the holiday season.
After all, spending quality time with family and friends is what it’s all about. We can get so caught up in gifts, travel plans, stress, and finishing off loose ends at work that we forget to savour the wonderful moments of the season. You’ll find some ideas below on how to have the sweetest holiday season.
Gifts
Let’s get the most stressful part out of the way first. Sure, exchanging gifts during the holidays is always exciting, especially if you receive that special item on your wish list. However, shopping for everyone you know can be stressful, time consuming, and expensive. If you want to make shopping for gifts less stressful, consider starting early. Not having a time constraint or that added pressure really allows you to relax and put some thought into finding the perfect gift.
Another great way to save money and stress when shopping for gifts is by shopping with Rakuten.ca, of course! You can simply order items online from the comfort of your own home, making browsing a breeze. You can also purchase gift cards through the Rakuten Gift Card Shop to make things even easier! We love the idea getting all your holiday shopping done right from your couch, while also saving money and scoring Cash Back!
Flavours of the Season
We all know the smell of the holidays, maybe you can’t describe it, but you know it when it’s there. You can find plenty of holiday scented candles which can add such a cozy ambiance to your home. The smell of the holidays is truly so nostalgic and comforting.
Speaking of flavours, let’s get to the good stuff; food! Stock your cupboards with your favourite holiday treats, or get in the kitchen and do some baking. Whether you like cookies, cakes, pies, bars, or chocolate, whip up something delicious to share with family and friends. Cooking up a nice hearty meal can also get you in the spirit with some wonderful winter and holiday flavours and spices.
Set the Mood
Since it’s usually pretty chilly during the holidays, it’s the perfect time to cuddle up on the couch with a good movie. Whether you’re up for a new flick, or enjoy an old classic, now is the time to get in the spirit. Some favourites around this time of year are Home Alone, , but there are endless options, especially the new Grinch movie! It’s also lovely to sit back with a cup of tea or a glass of wine and blast some holiday tunes. One easy way to get in the holiday spirit is a good song. Find your favourite soundtrack or Spotify playlist & it’s time to get holly and jolly!
Stock up on cozy essentials
What’s a movie night or a cozy night in without the essentials? Of course we need comfy pjs or sweats, as well as slippers or fuzzy socks to stay warm and toasty. A great cup of tea, hot chocolate, or glass of wine is also a necessity, as are warm blankets and fluffy pillows. Make it a relaxing spa experience at home by stocking your cabinet with bath salts or body scrubs, face masks and new nail polish!
Feast on Food
As we already mentioned, food is a huge part of the holidays. Most of us look forward to indulging during this time of year. Food brings people together, so enjoying a fabulous meal or treat with friends and family is what it’s is all about. There are tons of holiday dinners, parties and gatherings which of course focus on food. Consider trying a new recipe, or sticking to an old classic, all made with love. You can also purchase gift cards through the Rakuten Gift Card Shop to some grocery stores to help save time and money on your grocery needs.
Explore your city
Check out events in your own city, since there tends to be plenty around this time of year. Whether it’s your local Santa Claus Parade, a Christmas market, tree lighting ceremony, or just a casual skate night, be sure to get involved in local activities. It’s a fabulous way to meet others in the community, while having a festive night out with family or friends.
Travel
Many people tend to head out of town during the holidays. Whether it’s to visit family, or just head out on vacation, book yourself that trip. It’s a great time to escape the cold weather and head somewhere warm for a little vacay. You may not experience a white Christmas, but warmer weather sounds pretty sweet! You can book a vacation to help you save and receive Cash Back on all your travel needs by booking with Rakuten! Several aspects of your trip can be booked including hotels, flights, and car rentals.
Spend time with family and friends
This might just be the most important part of the season. Although many of the above include your loved ones, it’s important to remember what counts. Spending quality time with family and friends, especially those you don’t see regularly is what makes the holidays special.
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