How women can cultivate wellness during the chaos of the holiday season
by Dorothy Korber
Sometimes, amid all the holiday hustle and bustle, we find ourselves craving a moment of stillness. Particularly during the holidays, women add a layer of stress to an already demanding schedule.
Vice-chair of the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls Nisha Devi Rodrigo offers some tidings of comfort and joy—and guidance.
“Women assume the role of being the center or hub in families and communities,” says Rodrigo, a practitioner of Eastern medicine and the founder of KALA Wellness, a company teaching ancient Eastern techniques to medical science. The foundations of ancient medicine give Rodrigo a deeper understanding of the changing seasons and how they apply to our health.
“During the holidays, we run ourselves ragged—preparing special meals, working extra hours, decorating and gift wrapping, being of service, constantly giving time, energy, and love,” she says. “And yet, we feel we never get through the list or do enough.”
“Women are conditioned to devalue stillness. If the pattern is stress and constant movement, there cannot be a moment of peace. During this holiday season, stop, take a breath, and prioritize stillness.”
Nisha Devi Rodrigo
Vice Chair, California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls and Founder, KALA Wellness
Women, she adds, carry multiple roles year-round.
“We’re caregivers and organizers, balancing family traditions, work obligations, and community commitments,” Rodrigo says. “Our younger girls often feel the pressure of school, social expectations, and their own responsibilities. What should be a time of celebration and rest can often take a toll on physical, emotional, and social well-being.”
During this season, prioritizing wellness is essential.
“Winter is the time to slow down, let the body heal, and consolidate from the year’s activities,” she advises. “Take time to rest, practice mindfulness, and set healthy boundaries. Consider sustaining your own energy and participating in celebrating the season.”
Wellness incorporates community. Ask for help when needed. Sharing responsibilities can not only ease burdens but also create opportunities for connection. Whether preparing meals, decorating, or managing family activities, it can be both fun and restorative when we are part of a larger village of support.
Rodrigo further advises women to take a step back and reassess their to-do lists.
“Try to cultivate the understanding that moderation is key. The idea is to slow down at the end of the year, rather than ramp up,” Rodrigo says. “Women are conditioned to devalue stillness. If the pattern is stress and constant movement, there cannot be a moment of peace. During this holiday season, stop, take a breath, and prioritize stillness.”
Small steps, she says, can shift the nervous system—and bring joy.
“Spend time in nature or with animals. Be sure to hydrate,” she says. “Focus on staying warm. Do something for you, take a walk, find a minute to breathe, and be still.”
What’s another source of joy? Ask any kid—or ask Morgan Rigopoulos, a nurse practitioner and the chief wellness officer at KALA Wellness.
“Play!” she says. “There is something very healing about being playful. It could be with kids, or with adults your own age. Maybe take a fun art class—or join a game of soccer. Don’t over-complicate it, but do prioritize time for play. Play is joy.”
Finally, consider replacing negative thoughts with gratitude. Studies show gratitude has a superpower: reducing stress while increasing happiness.
“Make a list of things you’re thankful for,” Rodrigo says. “Our brain attaches more to negatives than positives; look for the positives to retrain your patterns.”
For Rodrigo, it’s about learning to honor your energy, your ancestry, and all you do. Instead of revisiting your unfinished list, practice seeing yourself from a place of fullness. You have already done enough, and you are enough.
For more information on the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls visit https://women.ca.gov/
