SELF-CARE YOUR WAY TO A MERRY CHRISTMAS

Can you feel it? The temperature has dipped, the air relaxed. Even though this time of the year typically means a frenzied race to completing projects, gift shopping, party planning and travelling, still, there is a comforting sense of calm as we look forward to winding down and catching up with friends and family. This, perhaps, is what we’ve worked so hard all year long for — to finally enjoy the little precious moments: Take stock of the year, contemplate your gift list, choose your wrapping paper, organise presents under the tree, write Christmas cards, make a Christmas wreath, plan your dinner menu, cook, bake, book a trip with your other half, your children or yourself,  treat yourself to a facial, breathe, reconnect.

Ahh… doesn’t it all sound wonderful? The morning of December 25 cannot come sooner. But in the mean time, as you tie up those loose ends at the office, may we suggest you start composing your out-of-office email, and make a few plans to do something nice for you — you know, a pat on the back for a year well done, or to sooth those frazzled nerves before diving into December with a full heart and champagne bottles ready to be emptied.

Just in case you need some inspiration, here’s our own wish list and recommendations of self-caring activities.

1. Send yourself some flowers.
   You’re a modern woman, so why not, right? And you can always deck the halls with them. Our favourite florists include Ask A French Flowers, Yi Lian Ng Floral Atelier and The Floral Atelier.
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2. Pamper yourself from head to toe.
   A new hairdo, a facial, a spa treatment (we have a soft spot for Auriga Spa’s New Moon treatment), a manicure and pedicure (you need to give our guy, Bastien, a call) — make a date with yourself. Try to take a whole day just for you. Leave the kids and your guilt at home. They will be there when you’re finished — and you will be much better equipped mentally and physically — and better tressed — to deal with life again.
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3. No gift like a present for yourself.
   Go on. Buy yourself a little present — to congratulate and reward yourself for another year well done. Invest in a nice piece of jewellery you have set your heart on. Nothing says “self-love” more resolutely and beautifully than a diamond, don’t you think? It is forever after all.
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4. Don’t dream of a white Christmas, make it happen.
   New York, Salzburg or Reykjavik, maybe it’s finally time to take that long holiday you’ve been dreaming of. Think of this as a time to reconnect with yourself, with your other half, with your sister or best friend. Stop waiting, stop overthinking, just do it. Let the world be your oyster turkey this year.
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5. Reinvent yourself.
   You’re not the same person now as you were 10 years ago. You’ve grown and evolved (hopefully), so should your life, whether it’s your job or your style. ‘Tis the season to reflect and examine where you are right now and take your first step to your best self yet.
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6. Simple pleasures.
   Read a book, take a nap, walk the dog, have a conversation. At the end of the day, it’s really in the simple things where we find the most profound sense of joy, isn’t it? The best part? It does not cost anything but one hour of your time.

All jewellery from The Canary Diamond Co. 
Visit us at Delfi Orchard or Takashimaya to find the perfect Christmas presents.