As Christmas approaches, many of us are preparing for what will be a very different festive period.
It’s important to maintain our self-care this Christmas, to ensure our emotional wellbeing and mental health is not overwhelmed with negative feelings and undue stress.
Do things at your own pace
You may not feel motivated to celebrate Christmas after such a difficult year. Manage your own expectations and do things at the pace that suits you best. Don’t stress yourself out about entertaining the family or getting the dinner ready on time. Your mental wellbeing is far more important than keeping everyone else happy.
Connect with your loved ones virtually
Don’t feel that just because you can’t have all the family around on Christmas Day that the day is wasted. Get in touch with your relatives and plan something fun to do via FaceTime or Skype. Plan to open your presents together in a video call or organise a festive quiz. You may not be together in person but connecting via virtual means will help relieve any feelings of isolation of loneliness.
Take a walk
Another thing you want to avoid is staying inside over the Christmas holidays. A nice, long walk will give you reprieve from the house, as well as a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air. Stroll around a local park or a nearby town, so you can interact with other people (from a safe distance) and admire the beautiful decorations on display. The exercise will also boost endorphins in your body.
Take time for yourself
It’s been an emotional year, and nobody will blame you if you need some alone time. If you’re with family or friends but need some time alone, let them know. Explain that you are feeling overwhelmed or tired, and that you need some breathing space. You may be surprised to find that your loved ones have similar feelings.
If you’re feeling particularly vulnerable and uncertain this Christmas, get in touch with me and I’ll be here to help.
