DIY 12 Days of Self Care - Christmas Edition”
Written by: Julie Wagner, Social Media Manager
This year I made a DIY advent calendar for my kids, using little stationery items and fun daily activities to help them enjoy the countdown to Christmas. They get to practice anticipation and we build in simple moments of family time every day. While I loved making theirs, I realized… Why not make one for us, too? As women, we deserve our own little pockets of joy during the holiday rush. So here’s my simple idea for creating a 12-Day Self-Care—a fun, crafty way to fill your own cup this season! And if the days before Christmas feel too packed, turn it into a post-Christmas countdown instead. A gentle glide toward the New Year!
What you’ll need:
A bullet journal, thick paper, or even a piece of poster board
Two sheets of blank or colored paper
Scissors + glue stick or double-sided tape
How to make your pockets:
Cut your two sheets into 12 small squares (six per page).
Fold in the sides and bottom to create a little pocket shape.
Snip the tiny corner squares so everything folds cleanly.
Add glue to the outside of the folded edges. Don’t glue the inside or you’ll lose your pocket!
Assemble & decorate:
Stick your pockets onto your board in any arrangement you want. Lined up neatly, scattered playfully, or arranged into a Christmas tree shape.
Decorate with colored pencils, markers, paint, magazine cutouts—whatever sparks joy.
Number them from 1 to 12.
Fill with self-care prompts:
Cut 12 slips of paper and write something lovely, gentle, or fun you can do for yourself each day.
If you need ideas, here are some of my favorites:
12: Read for 30 uninterrupted minutes with your favorite hot drink
11: Enjoy a really good chocolate bar
10: Take a luxurious bath bomb soak
9: Write a love letter to your future self for New Year’s Eve
8: Light a scented candle and do a face mask
7: Unplug and enjoy a cozy hobby (game, read, journal, etc.)
6: Treat yourself to a mani/pedi (you DESERVE it!)
5: Sip herbal tea and write one gratitude from each month of 2025
4: Enjoy a warm baked good and jot down what you’re excited for in 2026
3: Send gratitude notes to up to three people (give it to them when you see them)
2: Have a cozy night with someone you love (make hot drinks, indulge in baked goods, watch a cozy holiday movie, etc.)
1: Take a long, relaxing bath with calming music and a tasty drink of choice
It doesn’t have to be perfect, just fun, simple, and something that reminds you to take care of you this season. Have fun making it, and enjoy every little pocket of joy!
