Christmas, we all know, comes every year. Yet somehow it hits us like a tornado and we become overwhelmed with the rush. These days our lives are jam packed to the brim, and although many of us thrive on the busy lifestyle we all seem to live, there are times (like Christmas) which should be joyful, but become all too much.
Suddenly the calendar is full of appointments, social events, school functions and deadlines; not to mention the never ending list of gifts you need to purchase. Everything takes so much longer – where did all these people come from? You find peak hour traffic seems to last all day, car spaces are limited, and the population seems to have doubled at Westfield.
I love this this time of year, but I’m conscious to keep it calm and merry, because it is just so crazy!
My Tips for a Calm Christmas Period
Smile
A smile on your dial not only makes you feel and look great, but I can guarantee your smile will make those around you also feel happier and it will create a harmonious and positive energy.
Don’t Forget Your Manners
“Please”, “Thank you”… I see so many people not using these words anymore? What has happened? Please take this time to especially be polite to the shop assistants serving you, or people letting you in front of them, or to those helping you find something. Make sure your children have their manners too.
Be Patient
Allow extra time. Yes it’s busy, yes there are more people at the shops, on the roads, in the streets. Be patient and caring with the elderly, and those who aren’t in as big a rush as you are. Be patient with mums who are trying to do their shopping whilst keeping their kids under control. Be patient with the shop assistant who is run off her feet trying to serve 10 customers. Be patient on the roads, slow down.
Take Time Out For Yourself
Weather it’s a gym session, facial, massage, beach walk or swim, make sure you allocate that “feel good” thing that keeps your cup full and keeps you calm. For me, its Pilates and meditaton. And a visit to the beach with a dose of salt water always keeps me balanced.
It’s OK To Say “No”
Swap FOMO for JOMO – Joy of Missing Out! Yep you read it right. You don’t have to go to every single event you’re invited to. It can get so exhausting, when socialising is supposed to be enjoyable. Make sure you get that balance between having fun at parties, and getting in your pyjamas early and doing “nothing”.
You Already Have Great Gifts Around You
There is so much focus on gifts, shopping, sales, black Friday, last minute bargains and “must haves”. Really… we have everything we need. The consumerism adds pressure, and stress and is not calm at all. Forget the excess items. Feel the love and gratitude for what you have and who you have around you.
Be Present
Just. Be. In. The. Moment.
Look After Your Body
The lead up to Christmas is indulgent on a lot of levels. Eating out more than usual; skipping that training session because you have too much to organise; drinking more alcohol this month than you have all year. Everything in moderation they say! Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Exercise as much as you normally do (more if you can) and the meals you do prepare? Give them an extra boost of nutrients.
May calm rule the chaos this Christmas. Please feel free to share any tips you have for peaceful CHrismtas period.
Love EM x