It is officially September!
For some people, this marks the beginning of the best time of the year. For others, it signals the start of the busiest and most stressful season. No matter which side you fall on, we can probably all agree that the next four months tend to fill our calendars quickly.
Between holiday gatherings, seasonal activities, family commitments, travel plans, and year-end responsibilities, stress can start to build before we even realize it. While we can't always control everything that gets added to our schedules, we can take steps now to better support our bodies and minds so we're able to enjoy the season a little more.
Many people consider September the unofficial start of the holiday season. Pumpkin spice drinks return, fall festivals begin, and seasonal treats seem to appear everywhere. While there's absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying those moments, it's also worth thinking about how changes in our routines, nutrition, sleep, and schedules can impact our stress levels.
I'm not here to tell you to skip the treats, avoid the festivals, or say no to gatherings. Instead, I want to share a few things I personally focus on this time of year to help support my body and manage stress before the holiday season is in full swing.
1. Prioritize Hydration
The first thing I pay attention to is my water intake. Most people could benefit from drinking more water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports many of the body's natural functions, including energy levels, digestion, and recovery. As schedules become busier and indulgences become more common, staying hydrated can help you continue feeling your best.
2. Make Time to Move and Sweat
I also aim to move my body and break a sweat a couple of times each week. Whether it's a workout, a long walk, a fitness class, or another activity you enjoy, regular movement supports circulation, stress management, and overall well-being. It can also provide a much-needed mental reset during a busy season.
3. Create a Self-Care Menu
Self-care looks different for everyone, which is why I like having options that fit different amounts of available time.
Some days you may only have a few seconds to pause and take a deep breath. Other days you may have 30 minutes for a walk, a meditation session, or a relaxing bath. Occasionally, you may have an hour or more to dedicate to yourself.
Having a variety of self-care tools available makes it easier to choose something that fits your day rather than feeling like you don't have enough time to do anything at all.
4. Support Your Body Intentionally
I personally keep a binder supplement, such as activated charcoal, on hand during times when my routine tends to be less consistent. If you're considering adding a supplement to your routine, take time to research what may be appropriate for you and always be mindful of potential interactions with medications or other supplements you may be taking.
5. Stay Present
My final tip is simple: enjoy the present moment.
The holiday season can feel chaotic, and it's easy to focus on everything that still needs to get done. Instead, try to notice the moments you'll want to remember later—the laughter with friends, the family traditions, the cozy evenings, and the small moments of connection.
Those are often the memories that matter most.
One thing I've learned over the years is that stress doesn't just affect our mood—it can show up throughout the body. It can contribute to muscle tension, headaches, poor sleep, digestive issues, and even skin concerns. That's why I believe self-care is about more than relaxation. It's about giving your body opportunities to reset and recover.
Whether that looks like taking a walk, spending time with loved ones, booking a massage, trying a Nervous System Reset session, or simply taking five quiet minutes for yourself, the goal is the same: creating moments that help your body feel safe, supported, and regulated.
As we move into the busiest months of the year, my hope is that you find ways to care for yourself while still enjoying all the traditions, gatherings, and memories that make this season special. Remember that preparing for the holidays doesn't have to mean restricting yourself or striving for perfection. Small, consistent habits can go a long way in helping you feel your best and enjoy the season a little more.