Small Possibilities

A calming guide to embracing the afterglow of Christmas and starting the New Year with mindfulness and intention.

The day after Christmas often feels like a mixed bag of emotions—gratitude, exhaustion, and maybe even a touch of post-holiday blues. The excitement has settled, the presents are unwrapped, and the house may still have remnants of gift wrap and holiday treats scattered around. It’s a moment of stillness that can feel overwhelming or oddly peaceful, depending on how we approach it.

For me, the day after Christmas is like a deep exhale. It’s a time to reflect on the joy and chaos of the season while finding little ways to reset before the New Year rush begins. Whether it’s savoring a quiet morning with leftover cookies and a warm cup of tea or tidying up with a sense of calm, there’s beauty in embracing this slower pace.

If you’ve been craving a more mindful way to transition from the holidays to the New Year, you’re in the right place. I’m sharing five gentle and actionable steps to help you find peace, reflect on the season, and prepare for what’s next. Let’s reset together! And don’t forget to reach out on Instagram, Threads, or Facebook—I’d love to hear how you’re resetting. You can also find more inspiration on Pinterest, browse my recommendations on Benable, and sign up for my newsletter for cozy, mindful living tips delivered straight to your inbox.

1. Savor the Season’s Afterglow

The day after Christmas doesn’t have to feel like a letdown—it can be a time to bask in the magic of the season.

Take a Moment to Reflect

One of my favorite post-Christmas rituals is flipping through holiday photos. Whether it’s snapshots of unwrapping gifts or candid moments around the dinner table, looking back on these memories helps me hold onto the joy of the season.

Another way to savor the afterglow is by indulging in those leftover holiday treats. Pour yourself a cup of cocoa, grab a few cookies, and let yourself fully enjoy the quiet moments. Bonus points if you do it by the glow of the tree lights one last time before you pack them away.

Quick Tip:

Use this time to journal about your favorite holiday moments. Write down the little things that made you smile—like a funny family story or a thoughtful gift. It’s a wonderful way to preserve the magic.

2. A Gentle Approach to Decluttering

After the chaos of Christmas, the idea of tidying up can feel overwhelming. But decluttering doesn’t have to be stressful—it can actually be a calming process when done mindfully.

Start Small

Instead of tackling the entire house, start with one manageable area—like putting away holiday decorations or sorting through gift wrap. I like to turn on a cozy playlist (or a favorite podcast) and take my time.

Donate and Share

If you received gifts that don’t quite fit your style or have extras of something, consider donating them to someone in need. There’s a special kind of joy in knowing your items will bring happiness to someone else.

My Go-To Tools:

Check out these storage solutions and holiday organization must-haves to make tidying up a breeze.

3. Craft Your Cozy Space for New Year Inspiration

The time between Christmas and New Year’s is perfect for refreshing your space and creating a cozy corner for inspiration.

Create a Cozy Reset Area

I love setting up a little nook where I can journal, crochet, or just relax. All it takes is a comfy chair, a soft blanket, and a bit of mood lighting—think candles or fairy lights.

Start a Small Project

Use this time to ease into a new project that sparks joy. Maybe it’s organizing your planner, starting a gratitude journal, or picking up a simple craft like crocheting a scarf. Personally, I’m all about curling up with a new crochet pattern—there’s something so soothing about the rhythm of it.

Shop My Favorites:

Looking for cozy inspiration? Check out these crochet kits and journaling supplies.

4. Practice Mindful Gratitude

The holidays are full of blessings, big and small, and reflecting on them can help set a positive tone for the New Year.

Gratitude in Action

• Write down three things you’re grateful for this holiday season.

• Send a thank-you note or message to someone who made your season special.

• Spend a few minutes meditating on the joy and love you experienced.

I’ve found that taking even five minutes to reflect can make a world of difference. One year, I started a tradition of writing thank-you notes with my morning coffee the day after Christmas—it’s now one of my favorite rituals.

Get Started:

Download my gratitude journal printable to guide your reflections.

5. Ease Into the New Year

There’s no need to rush into resolutions or planning—give yourself permission to ease into the New Year with intention.

Set Simple Intentions

Instead of diving into a long list of resolutions, start with one or two small, meaningful goals. For example, focus on a daily habit like drinking more water or spending 10 minutes a day on self-care.

Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Celebrate the little wins, like clearing a single drawer or spending an hour on a creative project.

Need Inspiration?

Check out my Crafts for the Soul category for ideas on calming, creative projects to start your year. I am also releasing all new printables on my shop for 2025 with a new minamilistic aesthetic and a focus on mindful habits!

Conclusion: A Season of Possibilities

The days after Christmas are a time to reflect, reset, and embrace the possibilities of the New Year. By savoring the season’s afterglow, decluttering with care, creating cozy spaces, and practicing gratitude, you can find peace and joy in this transition.

I’d love to hear how you’re resetting after the holidays! Drop a comment below or send me a message on Instagram, Threads, or Facebook. Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more mindful living tips (and an exclusive mindfulness journal printable!) and follow me on Pinterest and Benable for cozy inspiration and product recommendations.

Happy resetting,

Cas Lin

Small Possibilities

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