Therapists and counselors spend most of the holiday season caring for others — but often forget to nurture themselves. Advent is the perfect time to flip that narrative. Instead of rushing through December, imagine having a daily reminder to pause, breathe, and take care of you.
This Therapist’s Advent Calendar offers 24 simple, realistic self-care practices that fit even the busiest schedule. Each small act becomes a moment of grounding, helping you stay centered while you support clients and prepare for the holidays.
Week 1: Rest & Grounding
(Focus: slowing down, restoring your nervous system, and reconnecting with the present.)
1. Light a Candle at Your Desk
Pause for one minute of silence before starting the day.
Before opening your inbox or starting your first session, pause to light a candle. Let that small flame mark the start of your workday — a reminder that your presence matters as much as your productivity.
Take one quiet minute to breathe and set an intention like, “I create calm for others by staying calm within myself.”
2. Journal for Five Minutes
Write one word that captures your current mood and expand on it.
You don’t need pages — just one honest paragraph. Write a word that describes how you feel today (“tired,” “hopeful,” “stretched”) and expand on it. Naming your emotions helps you process them before they spill into sessions.
3. Enjoy Your Coffee or Tea Mindfully
No phone, no emails — just sip and savor.
Instead of gulping caffeine between notes, turn it into a mini-ritual. Sit near a window, notice the warmth in your hands, inhale the aroma, and take three deep breaths.
It’s not just a drink — it’s a grounding pause that resets your nervous system before the next client.
4. Stretch Between Sessions
Two minutes of shoulder rolls or yoga poses make a difference.
Even two minutes of movement can release tension from hours of listening. Shoulder rolls, neck circles, or standing forward folds restore circulation and clarity.
Consider keeping a yoga mat or resistance band behind your chair — a visual reminder that your body deserves the same care you encourage in others.
5. Leave Work on Time
Protect your boundaries for one day this week.
Choose one day this week to protect your boundaries — no extra notes, no late calls. Let the end of your workday be the end.
When you close your office door, consciously switch roles: from caregiver to human being. Give yourself permission to rest without guilt.
6. Declutter One Small Space
Tidy a drawer or shelf in your office for calm energy.
You don’t need a full office makeover — just clear one drawer, shelf, or surface. Physical order creates mental space.
Keep only what feels purposeful or inspiring within sight; everything else can wait. You’ll feel lighter instantly.
7. Write Down Three Wins from This Week
They don’t have to be big — progress counts.
Progress isn’t only measured by breakthroughs — it’s in every small act of compassion. Write down three moments you felt effective, connected, or proud.
This practice rewires your brain toward gratitude and confidence — a quiet antidote to compassion fatigue.
Week 2: Nurturing Body & Mind
8. Take a Walk Outside
Notice seasonal details — cold air, crunching leaves, or soft snow.
9. Drink an Extra Glass of Water
A small but powerful reset.
10. Practice Box Breathing
Four counts in, hold, out, and hold. Repeat three times.
11. Enjoy a Comforting Meal Slowly
Give yourself permission to savor.
12. Write a Thank-You Note
Send gratitude to a colleague, client, or mentor.
13. Try a Short Meditation
Five minutes of quiet can reset your whole day.
14. Wear Something Cozy to Work
Even a scarf or soft sweater makes a difference.
Week 3: Connection & Reflection
15. Share a Laugh
Watch a short video or chat with a friend for lightness.
16. Call Someone Who Energizes You
Reconnect outside of work.
17. Journal About Your Values
Write one way you’ve lived them this year.
18. Read for Pleasure
Even ten minutes counts.
19. Play Calming Music Between Sessions
Reset your space and your mind.
20. Treat Yourself to Something Small
A new candle, tea, or journal.
21. Write One Positive Affirmation on a Sticky Note
Place it where you’ll see it daily.
Week 4: Peace & Renewal
22. Take a Tech-Free Evening
Let your brain recharge.
23. Light a Memory Candle
Honor clients, mentors, or loved ones who’ve shaped your path.
24. End the Year with Gratitude
List 10 things you’re grateful for about your work and life.
Tips for Therapists Using a Self-Care Advent Calendar
- Keep the activities short and doable.
- Use a visible display (envelopes, cards, or jars) as a reminder.
- Share ideas with clients — modeling self-care encourages them to do the same.
- Don’t treat it like homework. This is about joy and renewal, not another task.
Final Thoughts
This holiday season, give yourself the gift of care. A Therapist’s Advent Calendar offers daily reminders that you matter, too. Small, intentional practices can help you feel grounded and energized — so you can bring your best self into the new year.
Looking for more seasonal wellness ideas? Explore our Therapist Self-Care Guides for inspiration that keeps burnout at bay.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Eve, a former school counselor with a master’s degree in School Psychology and a passionate advocate for children and families navigating sensory challenges. As a mom of children with sensory sensitivities, I deeply understand the journey special-needs parents face, and I dedicate myself to researching and sharing practical solutions to help children thrive and feel comfortable in their bodies. My goal is also to empower counselors, therapists, and psychologists with creative strategies and supportive resources to enrich their everyday practice. When I’m not writing or exploring new therapeutic approaches, you’ll find me spending quality time with my family and continually seeking inspiration from everyday moments.
