Welcome to our Marriage War and Peace blog for December!

As the holiday season swirls around with its to-do lists, obligations, and expectations, it’s easy for battle-weary wives to feel overwhelmed.

While giving to others is a beautiful part of this season, it’s equally important to give to yourself. What if this December, instead of being caught in the hustle, you focused on creating an inner holiday escape—a retreat to nurture your well-being and restore your spirit?

This isn’t about jetting off to a luxury spa (though if that’s an option, go for it!). It’s about carving out moments of tranquility and joy in your everyday life, reconnecting with your inner self amidst the chaos.

In this article, you’ll explore the art of creating an inner holiday escape, discover nurturing activities to recharge your spirit, and find inspiration to embrace renewal during the busy holiday season. In this month’s article, we’ll focus on:

· Finding peace and renewal

· 6 nurturing activities for your inner holiday escape

· Women's Goddess Retreat Coloring Book

Finding Peace and Renewal Under the Stars

Earlier this year, I shared my “me time” ritual of soaking in my Roman tub. This holiday season, I’ve taken it to a whole new level—soaking under the stars with Orion shining brightly in the winter sky. It’s a magical, rejuvenating experience that feels like pure holiday bliss.

Thanks to my fitness center’s new key fob system, I now have 24/7 access to their beautifully renovated pool and Jacuzzi area. So, each evening, I escape to this serene oasis.

I start with light cardio to release stagnant energy, then slide into the warm, bubbling Jacuzzi. Surrounded by manicured gardens and soft lighting, I gaze up at Orion—a constellation that heralds winter and symbolizes renewal.

As I soak, I reflect on the day, savor small victories, and let myself simply be. The peaceful connection to the cosmos fills me with inspiration and a sense of belonging in the vastness of the universe.

This nightly well-being ritual has become my inner holiday escape. Orion’s glow encourages me to pause, rejuvenate, and create magic for myself—something I’ll carry forward into every holiday season.

6 Nurturing Activities for Your Inner Holiday Escape Creating an inner holiday escape doesn’t require elaborate plans or a large budget; it’s about carving out intentional moments that nurture your spirit and replenish your energy.

Here are six ideas to help you find tranquility, joy, and balance amidst the holiday rush:

1. Create a Holiday Sanctuary at Home

Transform a small corner of your home into a retreat space. Add cozy blankets, soft lighting, essential oils, and a calming holiday music or nature sounds playlist. Visit this space daily, even if it’s just for 10 minutes, to read, meditate, or just breathe.

2. Indulge in a Personal Tea Ritual

Choose a special tea blend that feels luxurious to you—perhaps one with soothing chamomile, spicy cinnamon, or fragrant lavender. Dedicate time each evening to brew and sip your tea mindfully.

3. Write Your Thank You Letter to the Year

Set aside an evening to write a heartfelt letter to the year that’s passed. Acknowledge its challenges, celebrate your wins, and express gratitude for the lessons you’ve learned.

4. Take a Sensory Bath Escape

Draw a warm bath and elevate the experience by incorporating your senses: scented candles or essential oils for smell, a bath pillow for touch, and calming music or an audiobook for sound. Imagine yourself soaking away stress and replenishing your energy reserves.

5. Set a Joyful Boundary for the Holidays

Practice saying no to commitments that drain you and yes to those that uplift you. A joyful boundary means opting out of hosting a large dinner and planning an intimate gathering or even a quiet evening with a favorite movie. Protect your peace unapologetically.

6. Reconnect with Nature

Even in winter, nature has a way of grounding us. Bundle up and take a mindful walk outside. Listen to the crunch of snow or fallen leaves beneath your feet, feel the crisp air on your face, and let nature remind you of the beauty in slowing down.

By incorporating these nurturing activities into your routine, you’ll create a sanctuary of peace and renewal within yourself.

Helpful Resources

Consider Women's Goddess Retreat Coloring Book by Laurelie Black. Put this book and a packet of crayons in your home sanctuary for creative reflection and inner journeying, making it the perfect companion for your December escape.

Share Your Insights

Join the conversation! What are some ways your family celebrates gratitude? Share your ideas and stories with me! veronica@relationshiprestart.net

All it takes is one person in the relationship to understand what’s going on and turn inward for healing, to transform their relationship from battle-weary to thriving strong.  

In the meantime, if you’re dealing with a spouse acting out relationship saboteur #5 (retaliation) and you’d like some support, wives, I'm here for you. Or, if you’d like help as a couple, click here.