In popular culture, it’s cited as the most wonderful time of the year, but we all know that Christmas can be stressful for everyone involved. Whether it’s having to deal with difficult relatives, shopping for children that have everything or making time for your 101 social commitments, it can feel more like an extra job than an enjoyable holiday to spend with family and friends.
If the Christmas panic is already setting in and you want to ensure that you don’t let it get the better of you, check out our tips for surviving Christmas both physically and mentally.
One of the best ways that you can get through this crazy time of year is by ensuring that you are well prepared. When it comes to getting organised, lists are an invaluable tool that you really ought to be making use of. Write down everyone that you need to get presents for and tick them off once they’ve been purchased. If you are planning on entertaining guests at your house, make a note of all the food and drink that you need to buy. Lists will help you stay on top of things and also mean that you avoid panic when you’ve forgotten something important.
We all have a lot of things to prepare for and think about at this time of year and if you waste energy worrying about tiny details that don’t go as planned you won’t enjoy anything, so instead try not to let small mistakes or slip ups get you down. Equally, try and avoid getting overly emotional or angry when your least favourite aunty insults you about the food that you’ve cooked or continues to ask you why you still aren’t married. Christmas is all about love and family, so try and keep that in your head at all times and it should make those few small mishaps seem less important.
With delicious food around every corner and drinks flowing, it’s easy to let yourself go over the holidays and enter into the New Year a few pounds heavier. While indulging is fine, try not to go too crazy as this is likely to leave you feeling bloated and miserable. Weight gain will also affect your confidence, so stick to healthy alternatives the majority of the time. If you enjoy a festive drink, be sure to stock up on healthy breakfast items and drink lots of water to avoid hangovers.
Who can I speak to about Christmas stress?
If you are feeling overwhelmed and having a hard time dealing with the stress of Christmas get in touch to talk to someone at the Private Therapy Clinic today by booking online.