Everyone knows that you're supposed to take time out of the day for yourself, but how many of us actually do it? I know that I used to cringe at the idea! Ever since age 5 when my mom used to force me to have "quiet time" in my room for 15 minutes a day, I was always finding something else to do...or think about...

Now that I'm older and wiser, I've actually felt and grown from the benefits of taking this time for myself - the time for me is usually through yoga, but it can be while you're doing anything: Running, walking, sitting tall, stretching your neck, taking a shower, etc. Anything that you're doing by yourself with your own body & mind can, is, in my opinion, a meditation & "me time".

So, two questions remain: What are the benefits, and how can you implement this into your busy schedule during the holiday hoopla?

Benefits of taking "me time" have been proven to include:

• more energy & less stress
• more relaxation & less irritation
• enhanced concentration & less fidgeting
• more happiness & less negative/sad feelings
• more self-confidence & less fear & self-doubt

Concrete ways to implement "me time" amidst the holiday hoopla:

• Regardless of if you're early, late, or just on time, when you're driving to a holiday party, sit in your car for 5 minutes (or even 60 seconds!) and come up with 3 things that you like about yourself. Delve into them and explain to yourself WHY you like those 3 things, invision yourself as those 3 things, and then get out of the car and go to your party. I'm a big fan of being on time, but if you're going to a party, no one's going to notice or care if you're a few minutes late.

• While showering, keep the hot water running for a few minutes after you're done getting clean. Just stand in the hot water and let it hit your face. Close your eyes and feel the sensation of the hot water hitting your face bones - Is there a certain drop of water that keep pounding on your sinuses? Is there a stream of water that's making your forehead feel good? Whatever you feel, just BE - without doing anything. Give yourself a few seconds or minutes to enjoy this time at the end of your shower.

• Feeling lethargic after a big meal? Do yourself a favor - put on your shoes and a coat and go outside for a 5 minute walk. Some people spend 5 minutes in the bathroom, outside on the phone, or emailing on their blackberry - you can afford to give yourself 5 minutes to not only move your body, but also to give yourself time to re-energize and re-charge.

• Do you have quick "me time" strategies that work for you? Let me know! Steph@StepItUpwithSteph.com