Take Care of Yourself this Busy Holiday Season

The holidays are a notoriously busy time for musicians and music professionals, which means a high risk for burnout or symptoms of burnout. We've asked our ND-ACDA Board members for ways they practice self-care during this busy season. Comment with the ways you practice self-care!

"Be sure to schedule family time that is free of rehearsals. I like to take some time to bake but try not to leave it all until the last minute. Be careful not to overcommit yourself or your students.  This is such a busy time but it should be enjoyable." -Cheryl McIntyre, Secretary and Membership Support

"It's nice to be a consumer of music during this time and not always the music maker. Difficult to do, but it can bring such joy!" -Sara Lichtblau, Contemporary Music in Worship

"As an introvert, make sure to take at least a day that is just for you to recharge during winter break or over a weekend to do the things that you enjoy without feeling any obligation towards work of any kind. 

While it can get pretty cold, bundle up and go outside when you start to feel stressed or overwhelmed. Even just a turn around the block to get some fresh air and a little bit of Vitamin D can make a difference in how you feel!" -Elise Weir, SSAA Honor Choir Co-Chair

"Find a way to break the general routine. It is so easy to get sucked into doing the same thing every day, going to bed, rinse and repeat. By the time you realize the loop, two weeks have passed.

Go for a walk when you usually don't. Call someone new.  Cook something different. I've even just slept in a different room to have a different start to the day.

Find a way to surprise yourself! AND DON'T WORK WHILE YOU'RE AT HOME." -Chris Loeffler, President-Elect

"Take time to play or sing music for your own enjoyment, not just for a performance. Listen to your favorite singer/group perform music while you are wrapping gifts/baking or doing things that are not school related. Enjoy a favorite holiday coffee treat. Try hard to not open your computer at home and do school things." -Connie Stordalen, Past President

"I'm not great at self care but I have surrounded myself with great 'care takers'. These are the people that help me to help everyone else. Look for joy in the season. Light a candle, say a prayer, focus on gratitude, take a double breath in before exhaling stress, and know you are loved. Someone is remembering the musical opportunities you provided and they are forever changed. Best of all, 'Keep the important things the important things.'" -Vicky Boechler, Traditional Music in Worship

"Setting and holding boundaries is really difficult, especially if you're the only music professional in your area. Think ahead to what your limits are for this season and practice saying 'no' to things that are outside of that boundary. You can't pour from an empty cup, so 'put your own oxygen mask on before assisting others'"! -Allyse Dunnigan, President

However you practice self-care, make sure you do it! Stay healthy, rested, and hydrated this holiday season and Happy Merry Everything!