We know. It’s still only November. But it’s never too early to start planning for Christmas, right? And we’re not just talking in terms of presents, parties and pretty tablescapes. We’re talking in terms of your mental and physical wellbeing as the festive season creeps upon us.
Last year was a damp squib for most of us. Ever changing lockdown rules meant we were unsure whether we could celebrate with our families or even leave the house. But this year is different. We’re double jabbed and have the freedom of the city. We’re marching into Christmas with drums beating, colours flying and corks ready to pop.
Never has the advent of Advent been more eagerly anticipated, and the arrival of a no holds barred month of festivities more welcome.
Because Christmas 2021 means we can finally hang out with our friends and families. Christmas parties are back on the calendar and there’s time off work. Long dinners, long naps, long drinks and merry making are very much a part of this year’s plans. It’s hard to know how we’ll cram it all in.
Then before you know it, the overwhelm sets in, bringing with it the desire to hunker down and don your onesie, as you retreat to the sofa and plough through Line Of Duty for the umpteenth time.
Just thinking about Christmas can be tiring. Right? So, what can you do to make sure you’re ready and can stay the course?
Get prepared
With just over a month to go, now’s the time to amp up the 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.
Sleep
That’s right. You’ve got five 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
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.
Take deep breaths
One of the most effective ways of boosting your energy in the short and long term is to increase the flow of oxygen around the 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.
