Just thinking about Christmas can be tiring, right? There’s the never-ending family commitments (and politics), the work Christmas do, the present buying, the meal planning, the house cleaning, the end of term, the merry-making… the list goes on.
It’s no wonder that a recent Mental Health UK survey revealed that three in 10 Brits say their mental health nosedives over the festive season.
The pressure of entertaining guests, giving the perfect gift, keeping everyone happy, and finding the finances to do it all can become too much. What’s more, as December dawns, more than 31% of people report that they’re suffering from sleepless nights as they lie awake worrying about making the Big Day special. Sounds all too familiar, doesn’t it?
So, what can you do to make sure your wellbeing doesn’t deteriorate as Christmas creeps upon us?
Get prepared
Both in terms of how you’re going to spend the next few weeks, and how you’re going to take care of yourself while you’re busy putting others first. Write lists, delegate, pre-order and make time to put your feet up. Bulk buy vitamin C, echinacea, black elderberry and other immunity boosters. Take them daily as part of your diet or stock up on supplements to keep colds, flu and other winter nasties away.
Budget
All part of being prepared. Remember January payday is further away than usual. Review your monthly incomings and outgoings and set a strict Christmas budget and stick to it.
Get outside
Whatever the weather, being outdoors is good for your mental and physical health. Keep yourself on track as Christmas approaches by breathing in fresh air, moving your bones and enjoying the scenery. Every day.
Don’t overdo it
This applies to the whole shebang! Eating, drinking, staying up late – try to do it all in moderation where you can. Your body and brain will thank you for it.
Sleep
That’s right. You’ve got a matter of weeks until the Big Day. Get in those sleep credits now, so when you need to draw on reserves, you’ve plenty in the tank. Good sleep hygiene is key at this point. Commit to waking and going to sleep at the same time every day. While your brain and body enjoy some downtime, your cells repair and replenish, readying you to wake up refreshed and reinvigorated.
Take deep breaths
One of the most effective ways of calming your mind and boosting your energy when you’re feeling overwhelmed is to increase the flow of oxygen around your body. Deep, slow breaths throughout the day is a great place to start, supported by the use of supplemental oxygen at regular intervals. It’s guaranteed to clear brain fog and re-energise your day. Make it a part of your daily routine during Christmas.
Ditch the devices
Give yourself a break from your laptop, phone and social media. Enjoy what’s around you. Work on being present.
