As the festive season gets busier, it’s easy to get stressed and burnt out (as I know only too well!). Earlier this year I wrote a blog about looking after your self, and I did promise there would be more. So here we have the festive edition. 5 ideas to help you survive!
1. Write Things Down
If you still have shopping to do, whether it’s the food shop or some gift shopping – write a list. That way you won’t forget anything (or anyone) and won’t come back with lots you dont need.
And it’s not just for lists. It’s such as busy time, it easy for things to go out of your mind. Carry a little notebook and write things down as they pop into your head – whether it’s something you need to do, or just something that made you smile. Then, each evening, or first thing each day, review your list to plan your priorities for the day.
2. Watch a Christmas Movie
OK. Many festive films have the same plot.. but what they sometimes lack insubstance is more than made up for by the joy and happiness and heaps of feelgood factor. I recommend watching at least one film every festive season – if for no other reason you get to sit down for about 90 minutes!
Two of my favourites are Miracle on 34th Street and A Muppet Christmas Carol, but switch on the TV and you will find loads streaming at any one time. (For those with UK terrestrial TV – Channel 5 has them on every single day in December).
3. Get Some Fresh Air
Yes, yes, I know, everyone says this (including me on many occasions) – but I do firmly believe that fresh air is just good for the soul. The difference for the festive edition is that you will have to wrap up warm! Going for a walk after dark is even better during the Christmas period, because you get to spot all the Christmas lights!
Go a different route each time, to see all the sparkles. (Just take great care if it’s cold, as it may be slippy under foot!)
4. Wear a festive outfit
Even if you are at home, a festive jumper or hat will make. Your smile might make the postie smile. Look in the mirror – you will smile. Go out somewhere, make others smile.
And don’t worry – you don’t need to go full out like Ted here.
If you don’t fancy the full ugly sweater and head gear look – maybe just a pair of festive earrings, a scarf or even a brooch… start small!
5. Blanket Burritos
Finally – I cannot stress enough ho wmuch I love a blanket burrito.
Snuggling yourself up on the sofa, wrapped up in a blanket – like a fluffy, cosy burrito. It’s warm, cosy and feels safe. Perfect if you aren’t quite yourself.
Perhaps with a hot cocoa, or a mulled wine. – or just a lovely cup of tea or coffee. You choose!
And remember. As the big day approaches. It doesn’t have to be perfect, I mean who decides what perfect is anyway?
Maybe perfect is everyone giggling at the slightly lumpy gravy. Maybe it’s mismatched crockery as you only use that many dishes once a year. Maybe its preprepared food, bought from a frozen food store, so no one is slaving in the kitchen. Maybe is swapping handmade or second hand gifts. Maybe it’s a quiet time of reflection.
Whatever Christmas is, it’s one day. And it’s yours to enjoy as you want.
It only remains for me to say – Merry Christmas to you and Yours. Wishing you all the very, very best.
Lots of Love,
Jac and Ted xxx
PS – if you liked this post, you may also like my original “Look After Yourself Article“.