5 Top Tips for Crackin' Christmas

​Have you ever tried to create the 'perfect' day? I have, It's a never-ending pursuit, isn't it?

Here I have put together my top 5 tips for making it through:

1) Be realistic with the expectations you have with others and be realistic with the expectations that you set for yourself too.
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Open communication is key If we’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, don't be afraid to ask for an extra pair of hands (There's usually some lying around). Create a space to share any expectations with others, so that everyone is on the same page. It might sound a little cheesy, but  it works! Remember the holiday season is about love, kindness, and connection. As long as you focus on those things, you're sure to make it through.

2) Take time out for an M.O.T
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Self-care is an essential practice that helps you maintain your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This might be meditation or going for a walk. Everyone knows my love of the outdoors and being out in the park. Just like cars need an MOT to keep it running smoothly, we need that to function at our best.
We need to take care of our physical body, our minds and how they are working together or not sometimes. We can then consider what we might need to do to balance things out again
Ask yourself:
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How do I feel today?
How do I feel physically?
How do I feel mentally?
What is happening with my thoughts how might they affect my feelings?
How can I pull myself back from any negativity?

3) Keep to normal routines as much as possible.
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Whilst it’s lovely to have some late nights and lay-ins, we are creatures of habit and thrive off routine. We've all found ourselves staying up an hour later and getting up earlier because there are things that need doing. it’s very easy for us to become over-stimulated and emotionally overwhelmed and small things that would usually pass by linger. Try to stick to your regular sleep schedule as much as possible, even if you have more time off from work or school. Make sure to take breaks throughout the day to relax and recharge. Sometimes we limit our exposure to stressful situations or people and set boundaries around time and energy.

4) Give yourself the gift of time

 If we were gifted time, how might you spend this gift? Take a bath, read a book, watch a movie, lie on the floor and look at the Christmas tree. Whatever you feel like doing, give yourself the time to switch off from the anxiety and worry of doing what is needed for the family, in the home or at work and focus on yourself. Hands down I would be outdoors with a coffee. 
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5) Remember you have a choice
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We can find ourselves being pulled in lots of different directions, trying to please those around us. We can at times lose sight of the things we need. It's okay to say no, making a choice that fits us. Everyone experiences the holidays differently, and it's important to honour our own feelings and needs. Whether that means taking a break from holiday traditions or finding new ways to celebrate, prioritize your mental health and well-being above all else.


Let me know what works for you. I hope this helps and gives you permission to do it your way.  If you need a little extra support with giving yourself permission.  
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