The festive season is usually one of the most stressful times of the year. During this time we have so many things on our ‘to do’ list and self-care is not one of them. We are very good at burning ourselves out during the festive season, therefore not enjoying it. It is important to break this cycle of ‘festive burn out’. Lets look at the festive season and self-care.
Often we come into the festive season already tired from a busy year. And the added stress of having the ‘perfect Christmas’, just adds another layer of stress. We need to focus on what we can achieve without getting burnt out. Christmas is not about being burnt out and not looking after yourself. Take time for yourself this festive season.
Learn to ask for help, spread the load of the ‘to do’ list. You are not the only one that has to do it all. Asking for help is one of the best ways to prevent ‘festive burn out’. Spread the load. Remember that you can say No, even though it is Christmas. It is better to say No than to burn out and not enjoy Christmas. We need to learn to manage our expectations of Christmas, stop comparing yourself to others and what you see on T.V. and social media. Do what is right for you and your family.
This time of year is fast pace and stressful. We need to take a step back and breath. It is often about taking care of others. But we need to remember to make time for ourselves, to make it the best Christmas and to avoid ‘festive burn out’. Take so time out of the festive season for some self-care.
You could even practice self-care with your family. Take a walk outside together, meditation or practice gratitude. Just remember to take a step back and reflect on what is really important. Prioritise what is important and what has to get done. Take five minutes every day to brain dump all of your thoughts, feelings and what needs to get done. This a good way to clear your mind and refocus on what needs to get done. You can also visualise what is causing you stress and how you could deal with it. This activity is also really quick but is effective in re-centering yourself.
We need to take a step back and reflect on what Christmas means to you. Do you really need to do that … for Christmas to be what it is meant to be. Do we need to go to extraordinary lengths for Christmas. Is that what our family wants. OR would your family be happy with a more simple Christmas but for you to be present and enjoying yourself.