The Winter Treat-Yo-Self Survival Kit

The holidays mean different things for everyone. Whether it’s family, friends, travel, or the pressure to get those perfect gifts on a 20-something’s budget, we all need a little breather to get through the “most wonderful time of year.”

So, in the name of rest, relaxation, and mental sanity, here’s a survival kit for getting yourself through the hustle and bustle of this time of year. There’s no shame in taking some time—or spending a little moolah—for yourself.

Via Giphy

A Classic Holiday Flick

The Nightmare Before Christmas, $35.36* on Amazon

A classic choice for the entire holiday season, Tim Burton’s musical about a skeleton who fancies being Santa for a change, is the perfect movie to get you in the holiday spirit. It’s also a nice break from some of the cheesier options that invade our screens from mid-November to December 25th (I’m talking about you, Hallmark Channel). You’re guaranteed to get “What’s This?” stuck in your head for days.

Home Alone, $7.50* on Amazon

I know I mentioned cheesy earlier, and I’ll admit that this film has its cheesy moments. But come on, the sight of Joe Pesci getting hit with paint cans and Daniel Stern screaming with a tarantula on his face makes up for it. See Macaulay Culkin at his best and remind yourself why we put up with family drama in the first place.

Love, Actually, $7.50* on Amazon

I must say, when I first watched this movie, I didn’t get what the hype was all about. But after a few more viewings, I kind of get it. This British romantic comedy has its dark moments, but it also proves that Christmas is the time of year to take chances and tell the truth—you just might find that there’s more love in your life than you thought.

A Good Book

Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris, $8.26* on Amazon

For the humorists and cynics out there, David Sedaris’ brilliant essay collection highlights not only the jolly parts of the holidays, but also the gloomy and sometimes phony aspects that we often ignore. Best known for Sedaris’ recounting of his time as an elf at Macy’s, titled “SantaLand Diaries.”

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson, $5.99* on Amazon

Also known as my elementary school’s favorite film to show when they wanted us to be quiet, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is the story of the delinquent Herdman kids who get cast in the church’s Christmas nativity play and end up teaching the congregation something about the true meaning of Christmas. Cute, funny, and extremely relevant.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, $11.16* on Amazon

Although not exactly a holiday story, The Hobbit is one of those perfect vacation reads (or rereads). Not too short, not too long; epic and yet surprisingly simple (as long as you don’t try to remember all the dwarves’ names). Following Bilbo, as he faces trolls, dragons, and riddles is a great escape for anyone needing to forget their worries for a while.

A Holiday Subscription Box

An Art Project From Smart Art Box, $54.95

We can all use some stress relief around the holidays. Whether you consider yourself an artist or you just dabble, a Smart Art Box, aka the more versatile version of adult coloring books, could be just the thing to let off some steam. It comes complete with a new project, materials, and instructions for everyone from the art connoisseur to the novice beginner.

Period Box From Bonjour Jolie, $20.50 and up

All girls dread that time of the month, but it’s even worse when added to the stress of the holidays. Instead of having to run to the store for chocolate or tampons—or whatever gets you through the red days—why not have it delivered right to your door? Personalize your profile to get snacks, gifts, and menstrual care items specifically selected just for you and your Aunt Flo.

Cocktail Box from SaloonBox, $8-$450

Pick your poison and have the ingredients and mix directions show up at your door. Need I say more?

Holiday Lip Bundle from Lip Monthly, $5 for your first bag

I don’t know about you, but winter can be hard on my lips. Try a Lip Bundle to keep your lips hydrated and kiss-worthy, no matter the weather. You never know when you might run into some mistletoe.

Holiday Macaroons from Dana’s Bakery, prices vary

Everyone deserves a tasty treat now and then, and what better way to reward yourself for completing your shopping list than some holiday-themed macaroons? Though you may not be able to bring yourself to eat such cute dessert, they’re absolutely adorable.

Items to Keep You Warm and Toasty

NEST Pumpkin Chai Candle, $16* on Amazon

This is the perfect gift for all you Scrooges out there. At least your apartment can smell inviting as you work through the holiday blues.

Gilded Books Matchbox Set from Out of Print, $8 at Out of Print Clothing

Hey, you need something to keep that Humbug candle alight. What better way than with an adorable tiny bookcase-like set of matches? This is how we burn books.

A Comfy Sweatshirt, $15.99* on Amazon

Who said dressing warm can’t be cute and comfy? Evolve has tons of long-sleeved garments to keep you snug while you’re out and about, or just home lounging. And, while you’re at it, get yourself some patterned leggings to complete the look.

An Adorable Grinch Mug, $14.97* on Amazon

Start your days right with an adorable way to drink your holiday liquid of choice. Personally, I don’t think you can go wrong with hot chocolate, especially with marshmallows and cinnamon on top (yum!).

A New Dress from Modcloth, $64.99 at Modcloth

The holidays mean holiday parties. Spoil yourself with a new holiday dress and dress to impress. Every girl deserves a chance to get out and look her best once in awhile. Bonus: pockets!

Follow Taylor on Twitter: @taylorleahicks | Instagram: @taylorleah88

*Price as of 10/24/17