CHRISTMAS SELF-CARE TIPS
Are you suffering from Christmas overwhelm? Well, you’re not alone. While it can be one of the best times, it can also be one of the most stressful times too.
Leaving many of us feeling down, overworked and quite frankly, exhausted, it can take its toll on our mental health. “We can feel especially low during the festive season because we assume everybody else is having the perfect Christmas – getting along, able to afford everything they want to buy and able to juggle the demands that this time of year can bring,
“In reality though, no one can have the perfect Christmas, so cutting ourselves some slack and giving ourselves some compassion is very important.”
- Carve out time for you
“Carve out time for you to take yourself away from Christmas and to remember that it is only one day – therefore if it’s not perfect, there are always other days. Give yourself some time so the pressure of Christmas isn’t relentless and something that you’re preoccupied with day after day.”
- Focus on gratitude
“If you spend just a minute every day to reflect in gratitude, the Christmas period will be the joy it is supposed to be. Create an advent calendar of one thing a day that you are grateful for. It will set you up for a good Christmas.”
- Set boundaries
“Many of us (especially women) have a problem with saying ‘no’ and setting clear boundaries with people (especially when we’re prone to people pleasing and we just want everyone else to be happy and have a good time). Many of us get overwhelmed with gift buying, travel to various family members and not having enough time and space for ourselves.
- Get out and about
“Ensure that you get some time outdoors; even if it’s cold outside – a brisk walk in the crisp outdoors can make a real difference to mood. Staying cooped up inside for long periods of time is not conducive to positive mental wellbeing.”
- . Make sure you get your health fix
“While Christmas is often known for overeating and indulging in rich foods that we wouldn’t usually eat in such large quantities, make sure you don’t completely overlook getting your 5 a day and staying hydrated.