Take time this Christmas
So many of us feel the pressure of expectation and obligation over the Christmas period. How can you help yourself stay calm and enjoy the day despite the seasonal demands? Here are my top five tips for a healthy, happy holiday:
Set realistic expectations - How much time have you actually got? Do you really need to make your own stuffing this year or could you be just as happy with some ready made? If you’ve got people staying, can they bring their own bedding or even make their own beds to save you time and washing? It’s fine to say no to extra guests or social gatherings if it feels too much.
People will remember the moments together - Remember that Christmas is for you as well as your family and friends. Take time to snuggle up and watch the movie, eat the cheese and play the games. When you look back on the days you spent together, no one will remember if the washing up was done, but you’ll all remember laughing at the jokes, the shared enjoyment of a game, or the walk in the wind and rain!
Take 15 minutes for yourself - if it all gets too much, take yourself away from the busyness and noise and have 15 minutes of calm for yourself. You can set an alarm, find a comfy place to sit or lie and just breathe. My little Two Breaths for Calm course gives you simple tools to help release the stress and bring you back to the present (and the presents).
4. All feelings are valid - not everyone loves Christmas. In fact, there are many, many people who feel sad, anxious or lonely at this time of year. It’s fine to sit this one out, to choose to do something completely unrelated, or simply to say how you feel. If you’d rather not celebrate this day, plan in advance to do something that you want to do. There will be volunteering opportunities in your area, or holidays or retreats with like-minded people if you want to take your mind off it completely. If you choose to stay at home - treat yourself to something you love to eat or do.
5. Prioritise Self Care - take a walk, have a bath, sit and eat, take a nap. All these things can be done in half an hour or less and really benefit your wellbeing. If you know you’re going to be busy, see what you can delegate for half an hour and give yourself a little break. You know you are absolutely worth it!
Christmas is just one day. In the run up, put your own needs at the top of your gift list. In doing so, you’ll have plenty left to give when the big day comes, and you can relax and enjoy in whichever way is best for you.
THE BEST EVER CHRISTMAS PRESENT ….
Give (or receive) the gift of a retreat. Time for yourself to rest completely in 2025.
