December is a month filled with magic and warmth, but it can also bring busyness and social commitments, making it difficult to find time for yourself. To help us create small moments of calm amidst the holiday hustle, we spoke with the charismatic singer Iris Gold. She shares her thoughts on how self-care and mindfulness can help us restore balance and prioritize self-love during a season where we often forget about ourselves.
We are proud to introduce Iris Gold – a Danish singer who has created a musical universe entirely her own with her unique style and vibrant energy. Iris is known for her distinctive blend of pop and hip-hop, which she describes as "hippie-hop," inspired by her upbringing in a hippie commune and her love for both 70s music and hip-hop. Iris Gold is currently making waves with her meaningful and captivating song "Boys Boys Boys", created in collaboration with Plan Børnefonden, to raise awareness about important social issues. Her ability to combine music, empowerment, and deeper purpose makes her an artist who truly creates ripples of change.
Get inspired in this journal post where, Iris reminds us that even in the midst of December’s hustle and bustle, self-care is not just a luxury but a necessity – a way to find calm and strength so we can embrace the magic of the holidays and enjoy everything they bring.
December can be a busy time with many commitments. How do you find time to care for yourself and create moments of peace in the midst of the hectic season?
As a musician, I don’t really live by seasons, weekends, or holidays—except maybe the summer, when there are more concerts and festivals. During hectic periods, I always make it a priority to meditate. It’s often in the busiest moments that I think, “I don’t need to meditate; everything is running smoothly.” But those are exactly the times when I need it the most.
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. What simple rituals do you use to create calm and balance in your daily life?
It’s really important for me to exercise. I train regularly at morkrop.dk, where I box. It’s incredibly grounding to shut off my thoughts and focus on the technique—it forces me to be fully present in the moment. Boxing gives me both calmness and energy at the same time, which helps me balance my everyday life.
Many people experience increased stress levels during the holiday season. What are your best tips for creating a sense of inner peace and balance when things feel overwhelming?
It’s crucial to communicate your needs so things don’t become overwhelming. I also try not to dwell too much on the past or worry about the future. Instead, I check in with myself—is my body functioning, and am I alive? That small reflection helps me feel grateful and stay present. Now that I have my son, I find myself seeing Christmas through his eyes, which makes it all feel more playful and less stressful.
Mindfulness is an important part of self-care for many. Do you have any simple mindfulness practices you use to stay present and find peace in the moment?
I love walking around my apartment with a stick of incense, taking deep breaths, and clearing the air. After that, I take a long, warm bath, and I always use my Meishai Shower Gel. I love that both my son and I can use it—it feels like a small, luxurious moment we can share in our daily lives.
If you could give one piece of advice to our readers about taking small steps toward more self-love and self-care in a busy December, what would it be?
You’ll get done what you can. Often, it’s our own expectations that hold us back. It’s important to remember that other people are also dealing with their own challenges. My best advice for a busy December is to remind yourself that things don’t have to be perfect to be enjoyable—it can still be cozy and meaningful,
even if it’s not flawless.
Photo credit: Tyler Lee