To say Christmas is a busy time of the year is certainly an understatement. Between figuring out what to buy everyone, battling the crowds at the mall, the wrapping, the hiding, the food preparation, the decorating, the baking, and oh yes, the getting together with friends and family; for a lot of people Christmas is a time of major stress! How will it all get done? We know from experience that is always does get done, but when you’re in the midst of another season, that memory seems to conveniently exit the picture.
Luckily there are ways to combat that stress and one of the best ways to do so is to make ‘me time’. Simply getting to be alone with your thoughts can do wonders to de-stress your body and mind and there are a number of ways to achieve this.
First, you must schedule that me time, make it understood that you are not to be disturbed and then actually follow through when the time comes. Me time can be as easy as enjoying a nice hot bubble bath, cozying up with a favourite book and beverage of choice for an hour, or meditating in a quiet room. Deep breathing exercises and taking the time to calm your body and mind also work wonders for the psyche.
Taking time for yourself amid the hustle and bustle of the season means that you remain more relaxed and able to take on the day, it helps you take the time to process all of the information that we are constantly bombarded with day in and day out and it helps to put everything into focus and perspective. Being able to think clearly makes you feel more refreshed and ready to take on the Christmas season.
So the next time you feel there is just too much to do… Join the club, but don’t forget when you’re making those much needed lists this holiday season, to add some me time to the mix. You’ll be glad you did!
Written for Marlene by Amanda.