As Christmas Day fast approaches and the world around you gets more busy with shopping, gifting, last minute Christmas drinks or lunches; it is important to ensure that you keep your wellbeing front of mind. It is easy to fall into the busy trap. However, taking time out for you, even just ten minutes a day, will help make your Christmas manageable and less stressful.
The following are five simple wellbeing tips for Christmas Day.
Be thankful in the moment
Stop thinking about what you will do later and focus on the present moment you spend with family and friends. Disconnect from your phone (and other devices), even lock it in your drawer if temptation to look at it is too great. Social media will always be there but the people in your life may not. The holiday season is about spending quality time with the people who mean the most to you and you don’t need to be distracted by the latest celebrity gossip that pops up in your social media feed.
Give the gift of your time
Volunteer for a charity close to your heart and aligns with your values. It is also good for your social wellbeing. The most valuable gift you can give at Christmas is the gift of your time. Completing random acts of kindness not only makes the other person feel good, but it also makes you feel like you are making a difference in their life. Whether you do something for a stranger or someone you know, the gift of genuine giving without expectation can strengthen relationships and boost your happiness.
Hydrate and hydrate again
You can enjoy a glass or two of delicious wines (or your choice of alcoholic beverage) but it is also important to stay hydrated. Christmas parties with friends, work colleagues and family functions can leave you feeling dehydrated. It’s no secret that alcohol can cause health problems if consumed in large quantities. Set yourself a reminder to regularly drink water so you can enjoy a Christmas drink or two. Start the morning with a glass of water and finish the night with one and at regular intervals throughout your day. If water seems plain and boring, spice it up with some lemon or lime which also help to boost your immune system.
Keep your fitness up
Christmas for some is all about relaxing after a big, hectic year of being on the go. However, you should still make time for some form of exercise. Especially when you may be gearing up to eat that delicious meal on Christmas Day. Your lymphatic system will thank you if you work some fitness into your week so that it can remove harmful toxins from your body Your exercise regime doesn’t have to be a five-mile hike either, a 20 minute walk in the morning or evening, dancing, or jumping exercises (if you have a trampoline this will make it easy on your joints).
Take time for yourself and spend less time being busy
The last thing you want is to be tired and stressed over Christmas. Schedule in time for you and indulge in your favourite self-care activity. Practise deep breathing exercises throughout the day when you feel yourself start to tense up and return your body to its natural state of relaxation.