In all of the hub-bub of worrying about getting presents and cards out to friends, family and loved ones, it is easy to forget about taking care of yourself.

I find at this time of year is when we eat poorly, sleep restlessly and rush around like fiends, exhausting ourselves all while staying up late wrapping and cooking.

This year, take just a little time out and pamper yourself. Be good to yourself. And remember that in the season of giving, that should include something for you as well.

Here are some hopefully helpful hints to get you through the holiday season in one piece.

15 days and counting...

Warmest wishes,

Stephanie

Stephanie Dickison
Publisher & Editor - the knack

Candles Made From Soy

A wonderful way to relax and unwind is lighting candles. Only in recent years have I realized the calming effect it has. And what better way than soy candles that burn clean and smell good!

I like the ones in tins, as you can take them with you, whether you are just heading in to the office or traveling for business.

You can shop by scent or by candle type. Something from the Metro Glass Collection makes a swank, yet eco-friendly gift and check out the bath and body products for further indulging yourself.

You deserve it!

Kaeline Argan Oil from Maroc

Argan oil is just making its way to North America but it's long been a Moroccan beauty treatment as it has the richest natural vitamin E content of all plant oils in the world.

Kaeline specializes in products from this oil and the incredible luxurious and nourishing qualities will make you feel like you've got a spa right at home, amid the laundry, work and bills piling up!

Argarome Soire or Repairing Serum is a way to restore your facial skin overnight. Not only is it 100% organic, it combines argan oil with lavender essential oil, "famous for its purifying and draining power." This means you put it on at night and wake up to smoother, healthier skin. And it works fast, so don't be surprised if the following morning, you are looking better already!

And to help unwind after a long day, give Argarome Bain a try. Sink into the tub and let the essentials oils soften your skin, ease your muscles and tension and drift away into oblivion. When's the last time you just took some time for you?

Kaeline products are 100% pure and organic without any additives, conservatives or chemical components, so you can feel good about nourishing and caring for your body healthfully.

And if that includes a little time alone in the tub, that's just a bonus, now isn't it?

The Body Shop's Warm Amber Body Butter

There are some things that instantly make you feel better. For me, moisturized, soft skin in one of them.

It makes me feel pampered and good from head to toe.

For this holiday season, The Body Shop has created an intense cream that keeps your skin from drying out for up to 24 hours thanks to Community Trade cocoa butter, soy oil, sesame oil and organic babassu oil. It leaves your skin glowing and soft, while the lilting, intoxicating fragrance of warm ambers lingers around you.

In fact, it smells like being cuddled under a blanket in front of the fire, with a glass of wine or sherry, with your nearest and dearest. Memories being made, laughter ringing through the night.

That is what the holidays should be about. And if that is not a reality for you this year, put a little warm amber on. You'll feel better instantly and you'll smell absolutely fantastic.

It's a little thing, but it's a nice thing.

Light a candle, draw and bath and put on some rich cream - it may not be the holiday in Hawaii you were hoping for, but it is a little retreat from the world around you.

And you need it every once in awhile, so don't feel bad for indulging. In fact, make it a priority. Because how can you care for others when you don't care for yourself?