The festive season has a funny way of filling every available gap in your diary. There are the family lunches, the beach days, the “quick pop-ins” that turn into long catch-ups, and the constant soundtrack of snacks, school holiday boredom, and someone asking what’s for supper.

And yet, this time of year is also a gift not just for seeing the people you love, but for remembering yourself, too.

At LMC, we’re rooted in those everyday moments. From a rooibos farm at the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, our teas celebrate South African heritage and the kind of connection that happens around a warm cup, or a cold glass on a sunny day.

Here are a few simple ways to make space for family time and for you time, without turning “rest” into another thing on the to-do list.

1) Make “being together” easier, not bigger

Not every special moment has to be a full production. Sometimes it’s as simple as putting the kettle on while the kids play, then calling everyone in for five minutes at the table before the next activity begins.

If you’re hosting or visiting, a mix of blends makes it easy to meet everyone where they’re at, the spice-lovers, the citrus fans, the “just give me plain rooibos” crowd. The LMC Rooibos Collection Gift Box brings four blends together for sharing.

For a bright, fresh option that feels like holiday energy in a mug (or a glass), LMC Pear & Elderflower Rooibos is especially refreshing as a cold brew.

2) Give yourself a “quiet window” that no one negotiates

The fastest way to lose yourself in the holidays is to be available all the time. Try this instead: pick one small, quiet window each day, even for just 10 minutes, and protect it like you would a school play or a dentist appointment.

Early morning, before the house wakes up, is a favourite for a reason. Pour a cup, stand at the kitchen window, and let your brain arrive. LMC Pure Rooibos is beautifully simple with a smooth, sweet taste.

If you’re heading into a busy day of errands, driving, or entertaining, LMC Ginger & Lemongrass Rooibos has that little touch of heat that feels like a gentle pick-me-up.

This is part of the heart of LMC, celebrating everyday moments, valuing me time, and sharing it with friends.

3) Use tea as the “reset” between events

Holiday days often come in blocks. One gathering rolls into the next, and suddenly it’s 10 pm, and you haven’t taken a full breath since lunch.

Create a tiny ritual between plans: kettle on, phone down, shoulders relax. For evenings, LMC Lemon, Chamomile & Lavender Rooibos is described as soothing and relaxing, with a refreshing lemon flavour.

If your version of downtime looks like a shower, skincare, and getting into clean sheets, LMC Rose & Vanilla Rooibos is a creamy, aromatic cup that suits that softer pace.

4) Make space for reflection that feels real

Reflection does not have to be a full journaling session with candles and a perfectly clean house. Try this: while your tea steeps, write down three things.

1. What you loved about this year
2. What you’re ready to let go of
3. What you want more of in the year ahead

For a cosy, slow moment after a big day, LMC Spicy Chai Rooibos is warm and aromatic, and it’s delicious brewed strong at night with hot milk and a drizzle of honey.

5) Set your space up for the kind of calm you want

Sometimes, self-care is not a bath; it’s being able to find what you need in the kitchen without rummaging.

A beautiful tin on the counter turns tea into an easy, everyday grab. The LMC Lemon Tea Tin and LMC Rose and Vanilla Tea Tin are made for storing and organising, and they fit a box of LMC tea.

And if you’re travelling, popping tea into your bag makes it easier to keep your small rituals intact. The LMC Rooibos Collection Envelope Gift Box is made for those “tea anywhere” moments.

Because yes, the holidays are for family. They’re also for you. One cup at a time.