At this time of year it's very easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas. It's fun and it's exciting but it also takes a toll on our health.
It's so important to remember to build in some self care on a daily basis to ensure you stay calm and relaxed. In this way, you'll enter January feeling energised and motivated rather than run down, stressed and overwhelmed.
Here are some tools for helping you stay sane in the silly season ...
Take a walk in nature. I was reading about a study recently that looked at the difference in benefit between a 60 minute walk in the city and a 60 minute walk in nature and the nature walk hands down came up on top. (1-hour walk through nature lowers stress, new research shows (medicalnewstoday.com)
Unplug and reconnect. Take time away from phones, tablets and computer screens and spend time with loved ones, reading or playing board games.
Take time to stop and spend a few minutes focussing on your breath. Just stopping for a few minutes and finding stillness can be really beneficial.
Long baths, a pamper session, exercising, getting together with friends, treating yourself to a cup of coffee in your favourite cafe, yoga. All these can help you switch off and relax.
Journaling is a great way of getting your thoughts and feelings out of your mind and onto paper.
So, as you prepare for the time ahead, remember that self care is not a luxury, it's a necessity. It will help you move through the season in a balanced and joyful way. Incorporating periods of rejuvenation amongst the parties, presents and pandemonium is absolutely the best thing you can do for yourself.
Happy Christmas!