Reclaiming Christmas as a Time for Rest and Relaxation!
15th December 2023
The lead-up to Christmas can be one of the most stressful times of the year. With so much to organise, purchase, and wrap, it’s no wonder many of us are left feeling a bit overwhelmed.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of tips and reflections to help you de-stress and reclaim the holiday spirit so that you and your family can enjoy a more peaceful and relaxing festive season.
De-influencing Christmas
The holiday season has become a massive industry in the UK, with more and more merchandise produced every year. In the era of social media, it’s easy to fall prey to the notion that bigger is better. Countless bloggers and influencers display their extravagant Christmas decorations, complete with giant baubles, heaps of tinsel, and fountains of fairy lights. It’s no wonder that many of us feel the need to keep up and go all out with our own light shows and decorations.
However, before giving in to the pressure to spend more and compete with others, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself if you’re being unduly influenced to shop from specific places and make choices that aren’t sustainable or manageable. Instead, consider going back to the basics and keeping things simple to avoid stress during the festive season. Nothing beats simple homemade decorations.
‘Tis the Season of Kindness
It doesn’t take much to make a difference in someone’s life. While it may be tempting to showcase your good deeds on social media, remember that small and genuine acts of kindness go a long way. Buy a coffee for the person behind you in line, tell someone how much you appreciate them, or donate some canned goods to a local food bank. During these uncertain times, a little bit of kindness can make a huge impact, so let’s all be a beacon of light for others, one small act at a time.
Say Yes to Festivities
Christmas is a special season, especially for children, but that doesn’t mean that adults can’t enjoy it too. Take some time for yourself this year and indulge in your creative side. There are many ways to celebrate the season, including creating your own decorations, attending wreath-making workshops, visiting Christmas fayres, and participating in festive activities that bring you joy. Remember, your happiness and excitement are just as important during the holiday season.
Take Time for You
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, spending all our time and energy on others. However, it’s important to take a step back and prioritise self-care. Whether it’s indulging in a bubble bath, watching a Christmas movie, or simply taking a moment to reflect with a cup of tea, be sure to take a few hours or even a day to unwind. This way, you can enjoy your time with loved ones as well as your time with a full heart and a rested mind.
Think Ahead!
It may sound like a downer to think about Christmas being over before it has even started, but it’s crucial to plan ahead and make things easier for your future self. Start by packing away your decorations in an organized manner, so you can easily set them up next year without unnecessary stress. But that’s not all – consider creating a “Christmas Stash” storage box and gradually buying presents throughout the year. This way, you won’t have to rush to get everything done at once, and you can enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday season come December.
Our hope is that our festive season tips will lead to a more restful Christmas for you and your family, filled with ample time to focus on yourself and spread kindness to others.