We've finally made it to one of the most anticipated, or dreaded depending on your perspective, time of year. Eclipse (and retrograde) season is upon us ready to bring about sweeping changes in at least one area of our lives.
The month begins with Mars moving into Leo on the 1st granting our mojo back after the planet of action painstakingly drudged its way through Cancer over the past month and a half. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse in Cancer invites us to create new foundations for ourselves specifically related to emotions, home, and family. Venus, planet of love, moves into cozy Cancer on the 3rd making you more inclined to cuddle up at home with bae. On the 7th, Mercury officially goes retrograde for the 2nd time this year. This time the planet of communication is backpedaling through Leo. Watch out for temper tantrums and find a more productive way to channel your inner diva.
Excessive amounts of energy are best utilized for getting into the details of old projects that you've placed on the back burner.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde for the next several months opening up old wounds related to the "lone wolf syndrome" while providing a new perspective that serves as the healing balm needed to mend our hearts and open us up to connection. The emotional intensity kicks up a notch on the 16th, thanks to a Full Moon lunar eclipse in Capricorn forcing us to purge old narratives that perpetuate the belief that we are unworthy of being accepted due to our achievements and social status (or lack thereof) in the world. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and you may have to revisit an important conversation or agreement made in June. The month closes out with a bang as the Sun and Venus move into feisty Leo heating up matters of love and putting the spotlight on your talents. The New Moon on the 31st represents a defining new beginning with Mercury direct supporting your progression towards fame and fortune or at least more popularity amongst others.
Check out what the month of July has in store for each of your zodiac signs below:
Aries
Aries (3/21 - 4/19)
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The month starts on a high note with your ruling planet, Mars, moving into Leo. Over the next month and a half, your energy will be exerted towards adventure, romance, and creativity. The New Moon solar eclipse on the 2nd has you reassessing your needs for security. This is a good time to begin your house hunt or start your fertility plan. Venus moves into Cancer on the 3rd, making you more inclined to enjoy the comfort of your home with bae. If you're in a commitment, you may consider moving in with your significant other. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, giving you a chance to revise creative projects and revisit hobbies that help you connect with your inner child. On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde until December inviting you to heal any core wounding related to the "lone wolf syndrome".
Instead of succumbing to the isolation, reach out instead. Even the most independent sign of the zodiac needs a pack to call their own.
The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 16th opens up a new portal for you that requires you to release self-sabotaging beliefs that block your success. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and the rest of the retrograde is best spent reviewing your budget or refining your knowledge about your source(s) of income. July closes out with the Sun and Venus moving into Leo, making you even more popular than usual. Your creativity hits a peak at this time of the year so use the energy wisely. The New Moon on the 31st signifies a promising, new opportunity that gives you a chance to step into the spotlight. Get ready for your big debut, Aries!
Taurus
Taurus (4/20 - 5/20)
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On the 1st, Mars moves into Leo for the next month and a half which can make you a little more short-tempered than usual. Breathe and count to ten before unleashing the wrath of the bull. Exercise is your best friend during this transit. The New Moon solar eclipse and Venus in Cancer invites you to take on a new approach to communicating your needs to others. Instead of lashing out, try taking on a more vulnerable approach instead. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde reminding you to be mindful of any short-distance travel. Chiron, the wounded healer, goes retrograde on the 8th and the next several months will be spent healing emotional wounds related to feeling separate from God.
Your dreams will be quite revealing, potentially providing insight into past life karma that you're working out in this lifetime.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse supports your desire to dissolve into the oneness of the Universe. Profound spiritual insight is likely and learning through your travels can help you make sense of your place in the grand scheme of things. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th, bringing your focus to nurturing your relationships with your siblings and close friends. You're quite poetic under this influence so finding a creative outlet to express your sentimental feels in beneficial at this time. The month closes out with a bang with the Sun, Venus, and New Moon in Leo lighting up your home and family life. Connecting with your roots can help you tap into your gifts and Mercury going direct on the 31st will help you recognize the healing power of sharing your talents with the world.
Gemini
Gemini (5/21 - 6/20)
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The month begins with Mars moving into your house of learning and communication. You can get a lot done over the next month and a half, especially if you work in the media. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse encourages you to flex your hidden gifts and talents for financial gain. Venus moves into the same part of your sky the following day, making you a magnet for people and opportunities that are attracted to your compassionate, big heart. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde, giving you a chance to review that blog post or book you've been working on. On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde and the next several months brings your attention to resolving emotional wounds related to friends and feeling connected to the collective.
This transit is meant to align you with a more authentic tribe that celebrates your eccentricity and acknowledges the value that you bring to the group.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse serves as a breakthrough in your personal narrative that helps you see your power more clearly. This can also be a time in which you, or someone around you, is exposed for manipulating their power. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th, encouraging you to make peace with a situation that damaged your self-esteem. Self-validation is the remedy, Gemmie. Short-distance travel is favored over the next month and Mercury going direct on the 31st supports a smooth process in reaching your destination. The month closes out with a New Moon on the 31st, making this the perfect time to start that YouTube channel! It's time to get your message out there!
Cancer
Cancer (6/21 - 7/22)
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Your birthday season begins in extravagant fashion with Mars leaving your sign and entering into Leo on the 1st, making you extremely motivated to get in your bag this month. If you're in the midst of a job hunt, Mars is working in your favor to help you overcome any obstacles in this realm. On the 2nd, there's a powerful New Moon eclipse in your sign. Make a wish for what you'd like to experience in the year ahead! Venus, planet of love + money, also moves into your sign on the 3rd, making you even more alluring and fortune. The cosmos fully supports you getting the big chop or revamping your wardrobe to represent the new and improved you. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, making this the perfect time to review your budget and salary.
Are you selling yourself short? It's time to start charging what you're worth!
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde, helping you to resolve any emotional wounds related to your father (or the masculine as a whole). Unpacking your own internalized patriarchy can be beneficial for healing the distorted expression of the masculine energy. The Full Moon lunar eclipse highlights your key relationships. This may be a time in which you consider tying the knot. However, this celestial event can make or break energy in your relationships as well. If there's been a toxic person lingering in your energy, this Full Moon will help you make a clean break. On the 19th, Mercury dips back into your sign and you may be experiencing some deja vu when it comes to an important conversation that was initiated last month. July closes out with a finale as the Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd with Venus following shortly behind bring you popularity and good luck if you're willing to come out of your cozy shell. The New Moon on the 31st can brings good news about an opportunity that will allow you to express your unique personality. Don't be shy, babe! You were made for this!
Leo
Leo (7/23 - 8/22)
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Hey, there, gorgeous! The month debuts with Mars moving into your sign which graciously returns your mojo after a slow-paced month in June. The next month and a half is setting you up for major breakthroughs particularly regarding the way that others view you. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse encourages you to surrender old beliefs about yourself to make way for the newer, more empowered version of yourself. Venus moves into this same part of your chart on the 3rd which makes love matters a little more hush-hush.
Your dreams hold the key to who your next romantic prospect or even some past-life, relationship karma that you need to address.
Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th and will be backtracking through your sign, just pay attention to the fine print if you have to sign any contracts during the retrograde. On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde in Aries and for the next several months you're focused on resolving outdated spiritual beliefs that have made you feel shamed or outcast. The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 16th may bring a finality to your existing routines. On the 19th, Mercury dips into Cancer, making you sleepier and more introverted than usual. Don't push yourself too hard during this last leg of Mercury retrograde. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into your sign along with Venus on the 27th which will be showering you with blessings over the next month to come. The New Moon in your sign on the 31st is the perfect time to make a wish for what you want to experience in the year ahead with Mercury direct pushing your plans full steam ahead.
Virgo
Virgo (8/23 - 9/22)
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The month begins with Mars moving into a quieter part of your chart, stirring up inner conflict between you getting shit done and you sleeping the month away. Don't fret if you're lacking energy this month. Your drive is bound to pick up again once we transition into your birthday season. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse welcomes new friendships along with a revived sense of connection to the collective. Venus quickly follows behind on the 3rd and for the next month and a half, you're aligning with your soul tribe who will play a role in your mission over the next year.
On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde amplifying your dream state with reminders of past-life talents and self-sabotaging beliefs that hinder you from expressing them.
Chiron, the wounded healer, goes retrograde on the 8th drawing you deeper into your psyche to help you heal from any traumatic experiences that made you feel like an outcast. On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse lights up your life with adventure and romance. If you're dealing with a fickle connection, you may decide to end it in the pursuit of something more stable. This is the perfect time to release any creative projects you've been working on. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and your focus in nurturing old connections that you've been neglecting. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into Le,o with Venus following on the 27th, encouraging you to rest up for a busy birthday month. The New Moon on the 31st, supported by Mercury direct, helps you recognize what beliefs and habits you need to release to step into a more expanded, fearless version of yourself.
Libra
Libra (9/23 - 10/22)
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The month begins with Mars directing most of your energy towards your social networks and your long-term vision for your life. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse, followed by Venus entering in Cancer on the 3rd, brings in new career opportunities and increased social status. When it comes to taking on a leadership role, a softer approach works more effectively. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, giving you the chance to catch up with friends you haven't heard from in a while. This is also a good time to revise your plans regarding your long-term goals that have the potential to change the world.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde which helps you resolve painful emotions related to a significant relationship or your experience with relationships as a whole.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse stirs up some tension in the home or with family. You may decide to move out of an overbearing environment around this time. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and this time is best spent re-strategizing your approach to leveling up in your career. Be mindful of power struggles with your boss during this time. Remember to breathe and count to 10 before sending that angry email. The New Moon on the 31st invites you to let yourself be seen in all of your glory. Making new friends that truly embrace all of you—diva included—is favored. Mercury goes direct the same day, encouraging more vulnerable expression that could land you in the public eye.
Scorpio
Scorpio (10/23 - 11/21)
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Career matters take precedence this month with Mars transiting through Leo for the next month and a half. If you've been struggling with gaining traction towards your goals, Mars is here to help push you forward. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse invites you to embark on a spiritual journey that could involve international travel and foreign affairs. Venus moves into the same part of your chart on the 3rd, attracting opportunities for expansion. You may find yourself taking on the role of teacher or spiritual guide for those seeking guidance and comfort. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, giving you a chance to re-strategize your path to success. Just be mindful of miscommunications with your boss.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde, encouraging you to resolve any health issues (mental and emotional included).
The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 19th can bring a project to completion, making this an opportune time to share your creation with the world. Increased social media engagement is favorable. This lunation can also help you break through limited beliefs and bad communication (self-talk included) that undermines your personal power. On the 19th, Mercury dips back into Cancer, giving you a chance to revise any written work you plan on releasing to the public. The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd, making you a force to be reckoned with when it comes to climbing up the social ladder. Venus shortly follows behind and you may find yourself attracting (or attracted to) someone with a whole lot of power and influence. The month comes to a close with a New Moon blessing you with a new job or promotion. Mercury goes direct on the same day pushing your travel and publishing plans ahead.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius (11/22 - 12/21)
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July begins with Mars moving into your sister sign on the 1st over the next month and a half, most of your energy will be exerted towards higher learning and spiritual evolution. As the philosopher of the zodiac, you may find yourself taking on the role of guru in the lives of others. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse invites you to embrace more intimate connections which will require some vulnerability on your part. Venus moving into the same part of your chart on the 3rd has you attracting people that can help you face your fear of letting others see the more sensitive side of the wise sage.
Chiron goes retrograde on the 8th, encouraging you to clean up house when it comes to any unresolved emotions inhibiting your authentic self-expression.
Connecting with your inner child is an important part of this process. On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse can bring in some long-awaited good fortune while also encouraging you to reassess whether you're getting paid what you're worth. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and your feels are running deep. It may be time to finally tie up some loose ends by revisiting that important conversation. The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd with Venus following behind. Over the next month, your online presence is undeniable. People can't help but be attracted to the wisdom you share. On the 31st, the New Moon, supported by Mercury direct, encourages you to go back to school or plan for a pilgrimage that will empower you spiritually to help others level up. It's time to step into your role of light worker!
Capricorn
Capricorn (12/22 - 1/19)
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The month begins with Mars moving into your house of intimacy, the psyche, and transformation pushing you to break through any barriers that prevent you from emotionally connecting with others. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse closes out a cycle of not-so-fulfilling relationships and invites you to reevaluate what matters to you most in partnership. Venus, planet of love and money, has the potential to align you with a significant new connection that brings out your softer side. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, which will force you to come face-to-face with the skeletons in your closet. Therapy is suggested if this process is too intense to go at it alone. Chiron goes retrograde on the 8th, stirring up mommy issues and bringing generational patterns to the forefront that need to be resolved.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse in your sign supports you in freeing yourself from an old identity that no longer empowers you (if it ever did). It's time to ditch the underdog complex and step into the winner's circle.
On the 19th, Mercury dips back into Cancer for the remainder of the retrograde which has you feeling nostalgic about an old partnership (romantic or business). Don't be surprised if an ex pops up around this time. The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd, along with Venus trailing behind on the 27th. This is a deeply transformative time for you, but it may feel like your process is on full display. Sharing your heartache and struggles can be just what others need to see from you for you to experience more closeness in your bonds. On the 31st, the New Moon encourages you to put your best foot forward when it comes to embracing the trials that have grown you into a wiser, more authentic, and more empowered version of yourself. Mercury goes direct on the same day, helping you get clear about what you will and won't stand for in relationships moving forward.
Aquarius
Aquarius (1/20 - 2/18)
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This month's focus is primarily on your relationships with Mars directing your energy towards connecting with others in a more authentic way. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse encourages you to make some changes to your daily routines, diet, and fitness regimen. Venus moves into this part of your chart the next day which could have you receiving a lot of attention in the workplace from people that feel drawn to your caring spirit. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde and you'll be revisiting conversations that took place last month with your significant other or business partner. This is also a favorable time to work out kinks in an existing contract.
Chiron goes retrograde on the 8th and the next several months will be spent finding your own voice within the conditioning imposed upon on you by others. Healing long-standing issues with siblings is also favored during this transit.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse closes out a major chapter of your life regarding your experience with your father or the masculine energy as whole. This is a good time to release any distorted beliefs associated with masculine energy. On the 19th, Mercury dips back into Cancer inviting you to revisit an old routine that benefitted your emotional well-being. This can be as simple as writing in your journal every morning or night. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into your opposite sign with Venus in hot pursuit on the 27th. Get ready for that summer romance of a lifetime. The New Moon on the 31st represents the start of a beautiful, new partnership. If you're looking for a business contact, you'll likely meet a charismatic person to join forces with during this transit. July closes out with Mercury going direct, helping you find the flow in your new and improved lifestyle.
Pisces
Pisces (2/19 - 3/20)
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July begins with Mars moving into Leo on the 1st and for the next month and a half, your energy is exerted towards improving your health. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse invites you to nurture your inner child and your creativity. Venus moves into this part of your sky on the 3rd, bringing in an influx of dating prospects or reviving the romance between you and bae. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde encouraging you to revisit an old routine that benefitted your health and well-being. This is the perfect time to start working out again or trying that plant-based lifestyle you've veered away from.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde for the next several months helping you resolve emotional wounds related to your self-esteem and body image.
The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 16th highlights your social network. This could be a time in which you part ways with an old friend group to create space for people that are more in alignment with you and your mission. If you're not interested in revisiting the past, this is a good time to wrap up a creative project you've put on the back burner. You've got all the inspiration to create a masterpiece. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into Leo with Venus following behind. You're on the receiving end of good vibes and fortune in the workplace. If you're open to love, the gym and health and wellness conferences may be your best bet for meeting someone. The month ends with a New Moon on the 31st inviting you to commit to your vitality by implementing better habits that benefit you holistically.
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Anyway, I personally think that the less shallow folks out here may contemplate calling things “quits” or they at least distance themselves a bit from their partner (and what I’m referring to is serious relationships) due to all of the stress and strain that oftentimes comes with the holidays whether it be financial, familial, due to their tight schedules or something else.
Listen, I would hate for you and your man to miss the fun and happiness of experiencing this time of year, all because you are so overwhelmed or irritated that you can’t really enjoy it. That’s why I have a few practical tips for how to avoid allowing the typical holiday season stress from INFECTING your relationship.
Manage Your Expectations
GiphyUnmanaged expectations. If there is a main reason why the holiday season tends to be so stress-filled for so many people, I’d bet good money that this is the cause. And when you’re in a long-term relationship, expectations can manifest themselves in all sorts of cryptic and/or unexpected ways. You might have relatives who assume that you are going to be with them for Thanksgiving or Christmas when you have other plans in mind. You might be thinking that you are going to spend one amount for presents while your man is thinking something totally different. When it comes to scheduling, your signals may be crossed.
And you know what? To all of these scenarios, this is where clear and consistent communication come in. Don’t assume anything. Don’t dictate anything either. From now until New Year’s, mutually decide to check in once a week, just to make sure that you are both on the same page as it relates to the holidays and what you both are thinking will come along with it. The less blindsided you both feel, the less stressed out you will be. Trust me on this.
Set (and Keep) a Budget
GiphyOkay, so I read that last year, 36 percent of Americans incurred some type of holiday-related debt. Hmph. Last year, there was still some sense of normalcy in this country, chile, so I can only imagine what finances are gonna look like over the next several weeks. That said, since I don’t know a lot of people who don’t find being broke stressful, make sure that you and your bae set a budget and then stick to it this year — no ifs, ands or buts.
Because really, y’all — it doesn’t make sense to deplete savings and/or max out credit cards for a few days of giggles only to be damn near losing your mind because you don’t know how to make ends meet come Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
And by the way, this tip doesn’t just speak to things like food and gifts; I also mean travel. If it doesn’t make a ton of sense (or cents) to be all over the place this year — DON’T BE.
Keep Matthew 5:37 at the Forefront
GiphyIf off the top of your head, you don’t know what Matthew 5:37 says, no worries, here ya go: “But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.” That verse right there? Oh, it’s a boundaries lifesaver! I say that because do you see “maybe” or “I’ll think about it” in there? Nope. LOL. It says that you should tell people “yes” or “no” and leave it at that — and that complements Anne Lamott’s quote, “’No’ is a complete sentence” impeccably well. Yeah, you’ve got to remember that anything beyond a yes or no to a request is privileged information; you don’t owe anyone details or an explanation.
Besides, if you are really honest with yourself, when someone asks you something and you give a “Umm, let me think about it” kind of reply, more times than not, you already know what your answer is going to be — so why not let you both off of the hook? Give your response. Commit to that. And let everyone (including yourself) get on with their lives and schedules.
I promise you that when it comes to those holiday parties, you are pissing more folks off by not RSVP’ing or doing so and not showing up than just saying, “Thank you but not this year” off the rip.
Remember That Your Personal Space Is Privilege Not a Right
GiphyA friend of mine recently bought a new house and invited me over to come see it. He’s a single man with no children, so as I was taking in all of the space that he had, especially as I walked through his finished basement, I joked about relatives coming to live with him. “Hell no” and “absolutely not” were pretty much his immediate responses as he went on to say that some folks even had the nerve to be offended when he told them that he had no intentions on taking DNA in.
Ain’t it wild how people think that your stuff is their right? And yes, that brings me to my next point. Your home is your sanctuary space. If you want to host folks this year — cool. If not, ALSO COOL. Please don’t let folks (family included) guilt you into how they want you to act or even into what they would do if the shoe was on the other foot. You are not them — and as one of my favorite quotes states, “If two people were exactly alike, one of them would be unnecessary.” (A man by the name Larry Dixon said that.)
Hell, my friends? They know that I am good for sending them random things that they need or even want all throughout the year. Coming over to hang out at my pace, though. Uh-uh. Chalk it up to being a card-carrying member of the ambivert club yet I like keeping my living space personal — and I sleep like a baby, each and every night, for feeling that way.
Always remember that your space, your time, your resources, your energy and shoot, yourself period (including your relationship), are all things that are your own. You get to choose how, when and why you want to share them. The holiday season is certainly no exception.
Cultivate Some “You Two Only” Traditions
GiphyIt’s not uncommon for some couples to hit me up after the holiday season to “detox.” Sometimes it’s due to the financial drama (and sometimes trauma) that they experienced. Sometimes it’s because they allowed their relatives (especially in-laws) to get more into their personal business than they should’ve. More than anything, though, it tends to be because they didn’t get enough quality time together and so ended up feeling “disconnected.”
Please don’t let that happen. Listen, I’m not even a holidays kind of woman and yet, I will absolutely sit myself down with some hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies to enjoy a Hallmark holiday film or two. Aside from the fact that most of them are lighthearted and sweet, I also like that they usually focus on couples loving on each other amidst all of the holiday beauty and ambiance — which is something that all couples should set aside some time to do.
Maybe it’s a vacation. Maybe it’s a staycation. Or maybe it’s my personal favorite, A SEXCATION. Whether it’s for a few days, the weekend or even overnight — don’t you let the holidays go by without setting aside time for you and your man to celebrate one another. Don’t you dare (check out “Are You Ready To Have Some Very Merry 'Christmas Sex'?”).
GET. SOME. REST.
GiphyI once read that 8 out of 10 people get stressed out over the holidays and 3 out of 10 lose sleep during to it — and when you’re stress-filled and sleep-deprived, that can absolutely lead to hypersensitivity, making mountains out of molehills and even not being in the mood for sex.
Your relationship can’t afford to go through any of this, so definitely make sure to prioritize rest. I don’t care how unrealistic it might seem during this time, sleep should never be seen as a luxury; it will always and forever be a great necessity.
That said, try to get no less than six hours of shut-eye in (check out “6 Fascinating Ways Sex And Sleep Definitely Go Hand In Hand”) and even ask your bae to take a nap with you sometimes (check out “Wanna Have Some Next-Level Sex? Take A Nap, Sis.”). Not only will sleep help to restore your mind, body and spirit but, when it’s with your partner, it’s an act of intimacy that can make you both feel super connected, even in the midst of what might feel like chaos.
___
Holiday season stress is real. Still, never give it the permission or power to throw your relationship off. Put you and your man first and let the holidays be what they are gonna be, chile.
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1. Go All Out with the Christmas Décor
GiphyThere is someone I know who is so obsessed with Christmas, she’s damn near annoying-borderline-terrifying. I’m. Not. Kidding. Yet hey, if you’re going to do a holiday-themed staycation (emphasis on “holiday-themed”), that’s kind of how you’ve got to be. Some décor ideas include:
- A fresh Christmas tree (is the most ideal) that is ultimately decorated
- Wreaths on outside and inside doors
- Garland (with twinkle lights) in predictable and unpredictable places
- Poinsettias
- Mistletoes
- Snow globes
- A stocking (with some of your favorite things in it)
- Fake snow
- Stars
- Angels
- Candy canes
- A BLACK Santa (LOL)
I mean, since you are going to be spending a lot of time at home, it can feel like a mini-winter wonderland if you are intentional about doing more decorating to your living space than you ever have before!
2. Buy a Couple of Christmas-Themed PJs
GiphyWhile I was doing some research on a totally different topic, I happened upon an article that talked about the psychology behind why we should be intentional about what we wear to bed. When you stop to think about the fact that (hopefully) you are sleeping somewhere between 6-8 hours every night, it would make sense that things like the color and fabric of your sleepwear would have a real impact on you — even subconsciously.
Well, when it comes to Christmas décor, specifically, not only does it take you back to nostalgic memories, it can also boost your moods. So, aside from being on-10 with your Christmas décor, also invest in some Christmas-themed PJs. Since you’re going to be doing a lot of lounging around (RIGHT?), do it in something that makes you think about all of your favorite things about this time of year.
3. Cop Some Christmas-Scented Candles
GiphyThere really is no telling how many articles that I’ve written where I am singing the praises of scented soy candles. Candles are soothing, comforting and a very easy way to reduce stress. Also, since it gets darker quicker and for a longer period of time around this time of the year, candles provide a relaxing vibe to your home. Since it is Christmastime, go with scents that are reminiscent of the season:
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla
- Cranberry
- Apple
- Pine
- Frankincense and Myrrh
- Peppermint
- Cashmere
- Ginger(bread)
- Orange
- Sugar Cookies
- Sandalwood
- Cloves
- Cedarwood
- (Hot) Chocolate
Personally, one of my favorite candle companies is Goose Creek. Their signature collections will have your entire house smelling like a high-end bakery. No exaggeration.
4. Play Some Winter-Themed ASMR Sounds
GiphyI’m from Nebraska and my mother was a New Yorker. So, if there is one thing that I like, it’s seasons and that includes snow during wintertime. Unfortunately, Nashville is cray-cray when it comes to that. If, where you live, the weather is all over the place too (which is why I think it’s insane that some people still give pushback to global warming) and you would like for it to at least seem like you are in your own winter wonderland — invest in some fake snow to strategically place around your home.
Oh, and don’t forget to turn on some winter-themed ASMR sounds too. YouTube has videos that run for hours on end that feature blizzards and howling winds that really can make you feel like you are in the midst of an ice storm.
5. Host a Holiday Movie Marathon
GiphyOne thing to remember about a staycation is it doesn’t mean that you have to be alone or that the only people who can participate are the ones who live with you. Since a staycation is simply about staying close to home instead of traveling afar — absolutely consider having some of your favorite people over for a holiday-themed movie marathon. Shoot, Black America Web even did you a solid by publishing “25 Best Black Christmas Movies Of All Time;” plus, Tubi has a Black holiday hits section of indie films too.
Oh, and make sure to get creative with the Christmas-themed snacks. Some ideas? Some Kentucky-fried turkey tenders with cranberry hot sauce (recipe here), some Holiday Hot Spinach Dip (recipe here), some Grinch Kabobs (recipe here), some roasted pecans (recipe here) and some Pomegranate Guacamole (recipe here).
6. Spend a Night (or Two) at a Hotel or Vacation House
GiphyJust like you don’t have to be alone during a staycation, you also don’t have to be cooped up in your house the entire time. Get a change of scenery in your own city by spending the night in a hotel that you’ve always wanted to try out or renting a vacation house for you and some of your folks to hang out in during the time between Christmas and New Year’s Day. I have a “love little sister” who does this randomly when she needs a break from her work as a therapist. She says that it’s damn near like taking a trip (and she has PLENTY of passport stamps; trust me).
7. Have Brunch or Dinner at a Christmas-Themed Restaurant
GiphyIf nothing puts a bigger smile on your face than the thought of DoorDashing meals and barely even touching your stove during your staycation — hey, I am right there with you. Do consider going out to brunch or dinner during your chill time, though. It’s another way to bond with people and create some current holiday memories. And if you’ve got a bae and you opt for dinner, it can be a wonderful type of Christmas-themed date.
8. Go to a Holiday-Themed Concert
GiphyBeing that I got my start as an entertainment writer, hear me when I say that I’m not someone who just has to go to a live concert every chance that I get. Oh, but baby, when I saw that El DeBarge was doing a City Winery tour and he was going to be here right before Christmas — I booked myself a ticket quick, fast and in a super-duper hurry! Shoot, I didn’t even want to go with someone because I plan to give him and that falsetto voice of his my complete and undivided attention. LOL.
I don’t know what it is about the holiday season that makes live music that much more enjoyable — but if there is a concert that features one of your favorite artists happening right through here, consider that to be a cool way to “tour your city” while cultivating a really awesome memory at the same time.
9. Also, Go Ice Skating
GiphyOne of my fondest memories of time with my father is going ice skating. We actually would do it in the summer (because that is when I would visit him) and, every year, he would get me a new ice skating outfit. Even now, when I watch someone ice skate (even in movies; like in the classic movie Garden State), I will have warm fuzzies.
Anyway, if you’ve never been before, go. If it’s been forever since you have, also go. There is something that is very sweet and so signature Christmas about it. Plus, it’s a top-tier form of exercise.
10. Take a Christmas Lights Tour
GiphyAnother one of my favorite Christmas memories is driving through neighborhoods and looking at the Christmas lights. And just like a Christmas concert can be a form of hometown touring, so can doing this if you decide to choose a couple of areas where you’ve never really been or rarely frequent.
Now are you excited about the thought of experiencing a holiday-themed staycation?
I thought you would be. ENJOY!
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