Oh to be a kid at Christmas again, a break from school, hot chocolate, and the countdown to lots of toys. The best time of the year right?
Fast forward a few years and as adults, the Christmas holidays can feel a bit different. All the build-up from the displays in supermarkets to the adverts on TV make us think that it is going to be a warm, cosy and relaxed time of year. However, Christmas can often be a mixed bag of feelings and stress. The pressure of year-end work, finding the right gift for numerous relatives, or feelings of loneliness that are amplified by such a social time of year. That’s why it’s especially important to set some time aside each day to do things that are contributing to a happy heart.
People
Spend time with the people who matter most. Christmas is meant to be shared. Love and a positive self-reflection can bring lots of extra comfort and joy.
A good book
Sometimes a good book can really help you switch off from the stresses of the real world and help you lose yourself in another. Books can yield great food for thought and can be an uplifting way to begin or finish each day.
Move!
In the winter months it’s easy to put off training or exercise because time feels tight, it’s cold and it’s dark. But training should be a gift you give to yourself. Despite feeling like you don’t have time, if you can get your training in, or get your sweat on in any way that feels good, without a doubt, you’ll feel better after you do. Even something as short as 15-20 minutes will do the trick.
Food
It’s fun to deviate from the regimen of a strict meal plan. Unfortunately, holiday parties, drinks, and baked goods can run counter to our efforts in the gym. While you’ll want to avoid the slippery slope of holiday extras, give yourself some freedom to enjoy good food in good company.
Give
Giving is often one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. To see someone else light up because you thought of him or her, is double joy. Giving doesn’t have to be expensive either—a homemade treat, a sweet card, an act of kindness. It truly is all about the thought.
Review
Take stock of your achievements, both big and small. It’s easy to get caught up in your long to-do lists, holiday shopping, and year-end reviews. Make sure you give yourself credit for what you have accomplished, on a daily basis.
Know Your Limitations
Practice saying “no” from time to time. If you feel yourself being spread too thin, then it’s up to you to be the gatekeeper of your boundaries and your sanity.
Sing, Dance, and Be Goofy!
Break from the holiday stress by taking a few moments to be goofy, whether alone, with your family, or a friend. Laughter is truly one of the best medicines.
Rejuvenate
Don’t skimp on taking care of you with a bubble bath, a spa treatment, a yoga class, or just a good night’s sleep.
Acceptance
Again, take the pressure off of yourself. Wherever you are, and whomever you’re with, is exactly where you are supposed to be. Feeling rushed? Don’t. Stop right there. You’re right on time for this very moment.
Enjoy each moment this holiday season