- Schedule in relaxation & alone time
It's important to remember to take care of YOU. Christmas can be a very busy and hectic time so remember to check in with yourself. Spend time away from your phone, treat yourself to a nice bath or a gentle winter walk.
- Get everyone involved
Delegate! A great way to get loved ones to join in with the festivities is to provide them with their own Christmas jobs, like Santa’s Elves! Such jobs can include writing Christmas cards, wrapping presents and cooking Christmas dinner.
Careful not to include too many people, otherwise this can just add to your stress!
- Budget in advance!
If you can; get all your shopping done before Christmas eve. It’ll spare your pennies and tick one more thing off the list! Make a list of all your lucky recipients and have a budget outline. Remember it’s the thought that counts, a handmade gift can sometimes mean so much more.
- Maintain a routine
I know, I can see you rolling your eyes from here. Christmas is a time when routine goes out the window, what day is it? Who knows. Try and schedule some routine into the run up to Christmas, whether it's watching a lovely Christmas film at the same time every day or having your dinner as a family together each evening.
- Get as much daylight as possible
Daylight is a natural mood booster, it improves sleep, eases symptoms of depression and helps establish a better routine.
Also remember to take your vitamin D! To read about the benefits, click here.
- Don’t get too caught up in Christmas planning
Make time to hang out with friends and family. Try not to get too caught up in the pressure to make the holidays all about material items.
- Take a winter walk
To get that much needed fresh air, exercise and probably much needed alone time away from the hustle and bustle.
- Find some indoor hobbies
With the uncertain future of more potential covid restrictions on the horizon it’s a good idea to have some fun activities up your sleeves for the kids!
For example, puzzles, games, crafting and baking will keep the kids busy and provide them with a creative outlet. Our family time care package can provide lots of fun for all the family.
- Block out food pressures
Don’t engage in conversations about food. Maybe you struggle with overeating or restricting? Christmas is tough so be kind to yourself. Surround yourself with accounts on social media that are against diet-culture. Try to distance yourself from those who make you feel bad about your relationship with food. Discuss concerns with those you trust/feel comfortable with and ask for support when you need it.
- Abandon expectations of a ‘perfect Christmas’.
Manage your expectations, stay away from social media if it’s making you feel pressured to have an unrealistic festive season. The main thing about the holiday is that you enjoy yourself!
- Set boundaries!
Don’t say yes to everything, attending lots of events can be very draining. Make sure to schedule in rest periods for yourself and the family.
- Remember what Christmas is about
Don’t worry about the fancy presents, or whether your Christmas tree is the best in the neighbourhood. Christmas is a time for family, friends and gratitude; so, kick back, relax and spend quality time with your loved ones.
By Christina and Lucy @ Brown Paper Packages
Comments