Amongst the many positives that come with it, the festive season can also be stressful. The pressure to have a perfect time and expectations of making things “magical” may feel overwhelming.
It’s important to remember that there is no such thing as a perfect Christmas. Allowing ourselves to celebrate in a way that works for us can help take the pressure off. Here are some ideas on how to create a little more calm and balance over the festive season.
Sleep & Routine
Sleep has a huge impact on our mental health. Over the holidays, our routines can easily become disrupted. We may go to bed later and lie in longer, which can affect sleep quality and, in turn, influence anxiety levels.
As much as possible, try to stick to your usual bedtimes and wake-up times, and avoid screens in the evening. Creating a bedtime ritual can also be helpful. This could involve reading, listening to music, having a warm bath, or using a guided meditation.
Some people find journalling or writing down worries or a to-do list before bed helpful for calming the mind before sleep.
Boundaries & Traditions
At Christmas, we often feel that we can’t say no, which can lead to feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Allow yourself to opt out of things you find tiring or stressful. Planning calmer days with no expectations can help balance out busier ones.
We can also feel pressure to stick to certain traditions to keep others happy. For example, if you usually host a big Christmas dinner, it may feel “expected” that you do this every year. It’s okay to put your needs first and create new traditions. There isn’t only one way to enjoy Christmas.
Stay Active & Get Outside
Being active and spending time in nature has a positive effect on our mood, but it can be harder to prioritise during busy times. Daylight boosts serotonin levels, which can help improve wellbeing, and also supports our circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality and duration.
You don’t need long walks or big days out. Even short walks of 10 to 15 minutes can be beneficial. If getting outside isn’t possible, any activity that raises the heart rate can help release endorphins, reduce stress, and improve mental resilience. A sports game or even a dance-off on a games console with family can be a great way to stay active at home.
Be Kind to Yourself
We all deserve kindness. Self-compassion can go a long way in helping this time of year feel calmer. Things may not go to plan, and you may experience difficult moments or emotions. That’s okay.
There may be times when you need a break from others. Accepting this and planning for it can make a real difference. You deserve to put your needs first as well as caring for others.
Treating yourself and those around you with patience, understanding, and compassion can be one of the best gifts of all at this time of year.
