We’re into December again, and even though the whole year has been busy and we’re not sure where the year has gone, we know it’s now going to step up a pace.
During this time it’s really important to factor yourself into the equation.
Do you need to spend all that money on those gifts?
Do they REALLY want it, or are you just buying it to give something? I’m meeting many people who aren’t buying gifts, are making things, buying local, and ensuring they stick to a budget. They no longer want to get involved in the debt and commercialism that Christmas has previously brought. Do you really want to spend another year paying off the debt of one day?
Do you need to spend all of your holidays with people you struggle to get on with during the rest of the year?
If you need to stay and the extended time can cause arguments, then booking into a local hotel, B & B, or Airbnb can help reduce the tension. If you can’t afford to do that, can you reduce the length of the stay? Just because things have always been done one way, doesn’t mean you can’t introduce a new way of doing things, there may be tension, but you also need to consider your needs and find a compromise – things don’t have to be all or nothing. There may be resistance the first time, but if everyone has a lovely time it can become a new tradition which you all enjoy more.
Do you need to go to all the parties?
You may be a party animal and love the chance to get on the tables and have a good time, or you may be wondering how you’ll survive the number of dates and after effects. Do you want to go to all of the invites? If so, great! If not, work out which ones may be the best fit for you and politely say no to the others. Want to go but don’t want the hang over? Intermingle your drinks with water, so you stay hydrated throughout the evening, and it’ll also help to reduce the amount of alcohol you’re consuming. Don’t want a late night? Set yourself a time limit, tell people at the start of the evening and ideally, arrange your pick up or route home. It’s ok to change your mind, but do it consciously, not because you didn’t set the boundaries and you feel you need to stay.
Won
dering where the time is going?
We can’t stop time, but we can make sure we pause occasionally! Work out your favourite appointments and make sure you get them booked so you don’t miss out during the Christmas rush. Look to make sure you leave little spaces in your diary so you can let your body rest ready for the next physical and emotional challenges. While it’s easy to drop things which make us feel good, look to keep them – you may need to reduce the frequency or length of time, but it’s important to keep your routine as much as you can
Not looking forward to Christmas?
We can’t stop it and there’s a lot of hype for one day. Some people think of it as just another day, and that’s fine. I’ve met people who, rather than being on their own, will volunteer for a soup kitchen, help drive the elderly to a meal – it doesn’t have to be about the commercialism portrayed in the media, try to own it and recreate a Christmas that feels more in keeping with how you would like it to be. It can be a difficult time of year, and if you know it will be difficult for you, why not book in with a counsellor to help prepare you for the onslaught of emotions?
Even though we’re once again at the end of the year, remember little changes can make all the difference – make this end of the year one you enjoy!
Louise is an holistic therapist who owns Therapy Centre, BS14 9HB, a clinic offering a range of holistic and beauty therapies. Louise offers aromatherapy, reflexology, holistic massage, baby massage, reiki and story massage. She is a mum of two boys and when she is not working she enjoys getting outdoors with her family. For further information, visit her website louise-morgan.co.uk