Did someone say Christmas break? This is the time of year that you get to spend a lot of your time with your immediate family and relatives. Yes, this does mean that you might be persuaded to watch some Hallmark movies with your mom and dad. This is the time of year it's socially acceptable to cuddle up on your couch with a book and hot chocolate in your hands.

If you're in college, this is the one break besides summer that you are able to spend quality time with family and friends. I have always found myself catching up with people from high school during the longer breaks. It's nice to see them in a happier mood, especially since their finals are already completed.

During Christmas break, there are two major holidays that most people celebrate. Obviously, Christmas is the one that probably comes to your mind first because it's the holiday of gift giving. There's nothing like running down the stairs with your siblings to open presents at six a.m. Just like Thanksgiving, it's a day where you can show appreciation for the people in your life.

The second holiday that should come to mind is New Years. I don't know about you, but New Years Eve is the night I do a lot of reflecting on how that year went. It's good to spend some time thinking about what you have accomplished and what more you could have done. I'm a firm believer of having goals that are going to challenge you, but are reachable. It gives you something to look forward to.

Christmas break is a time where you can spend more time getting organized. If you're someone who loves to plan, this is when your friends will be more available to schedule things like spring break. Just remember that it's ok to sit at home and take time for yourself. There are so many things that college students have to do during school that they seem to forget about their own mental health. It's important to realize that pampering yourself is essential, even if it's reading a book that you've heard is good.

We all need more than just a few days to relax and be with the important people in our lives. I hope that during this break you can spend time with not only your family and friends, but with yourself. If you build yourself up it will only help other aspects of your life. Appreciate what you have and look forward to the things that are going to be happening in your future.