#1 Shop online
Can’t handle the thought of battling busy shopping centres, manoeuvring through crowded car parks and dragging the kids along with you? The answer is simple: buy online. There are literally thousands of websites selling Christmas gifts with bargains galore. The convenience of online shopping means you can purchase your items whenever it suits you, and online stores will ship directly to your door – usually for free (just make sure you’re buying from a reputable website with a secure payment system).
#2 Have some ‘you’ time
We often forget that Christmas is intended to be a time for rest and relaxation when things get hectic. Having quality ‘you’ time is the key to staying on top of stress-related symptoms. Take time out for yourself every day – go for a walk or a swim, soak in a warm bath, have a massage or indulge in a personal treat. Remove yourself from whatever is causing you stress and you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday season.
#3 Get 8 hours of sleep each night
Stress and lack of sleep go hand in hand. Getting enough quality sleep will allow you to wake refreshed, ready to face the day, but switching off from the ‘chatter’ and racing thoughts in your mind can be difficult. When you’re preparing for sleep, ensure your bedroom is quiet, dark and well ventilated. Try sipping on a soothing herbal tea before bed and maintain regular sleeping patterns, including on weekends.
#4 Eat healthy food
Good nutrition is the cornerstone of good health. Diet has a major impact on stress but it can be difficult to stay healthy with the abundance of social occasions during the holiday period. Try and balance any indulgent dinners or lunches with healthy meals and alcohol-free days. Read How I’ll have a healthy December for more on this. Supplementing with a multivitamin is a positive means of ensuring you’re getting any key nutrients in your diet that you’d otherwise be missing out on.
#5 Think of those less fortunate
If you’re having trouble zapping feelings of stress, take a moment to put everything into perspective and think of those less fortunate than you. Sadly, Christmas can be one of the loneliest times of the year for many people. Try doing something for others, like donating to a charity or volunteering at a soup kitchen. Helping to make a difference in the lives of others is an extremely rewarding feeling.
#6 Get moving
There’s no excuse for not exercising during the holiday period. Regular exercise not only keeps your waistband in shape, it also helps to relax tense muscles and encourages a better night’s sleep. Exercise releases endorphins into your blood stream, encouraging feelings of happiness and improving your sense of wellbeing. If you don’t have time to hit the gym, a refreshing summer swim can help to revitalise and even a brisk walk can help to clear the mind as well as improve fitness.