Stress and Christmas: The Christmas festivities are a busy time for most of us; Imagine for a moment a stress free Christmas…Christmas may actually cause our stress levels to rise but in fact it is our reaction to aspects of Christmas that result in feeling more stressed out than usual. As you continue to read this article it will become clear how you can make small but relevant changes in your life that will enable you to radically reduce your stress.
No Queuing up in shops, not spending more money than we really need to.
No Traffic congestion and no difficulty parking.
No Drinking and not eating too much, no disturbed routines and no disturbed sleeping patterns. And not having to spend time with people we would rather not do…
I know what your thinking…How? Well if I could do all of this I would be a miracle worker…because sadly this is what Christmas is all about and I cannot possibly control everything and neither can you.
I want you to think about what it would mean to you to reduce your stress levels this Christmas.
I want you to imagine how different it would be to completely enjoy your Christmas this year.
Okay you’re probably thinking get to the point, what do I need to do?
As you continue to read this article you will learn new stress management skills. I will endeavor to pass on some tips to show you how to reduce your stress levels, and as you absorb this information, you will notice a reduction in your stress levels, you will notice how you could feel better with a just a few simple yet effective changes.
If you’re like me then you will want to spend more time with your family and friends. Simplifying Christmas will give you the opportunity to spend more time doing what you really want to do.
Much of the stress and anxiety surrounding Christmas revolves around the turkey and gravy. Remember Christmas dinner is like a Sunday roast dinner but with a cracker. Buy a pre-cooked turkey that also comes with gravy.
Wash, slice, dice and chop your carrots and green beans the night before.Store in the fridge.
Roasting your potatoes the night before, cover and keep in the fridge. Then when you pull the turkey out of the oven to cool on Christmas day, pop the potatoes into the oven where they will heat and crisp up.
Make excellent wrapping paper from the pages of used glossy magazine, colorful newspapers, and old calendars.
Instead of shopping for adults individually, why not bulk buy local organic wines or beers, chocolates or confectioneries.
Involve your guests. Delegate certain aspects of the day; setting of the table, washing up, lighting candles etc…
Let me ask you to share what this information meant to you by leaving a comment. Share your experiences.
Check out my other stress management post with lots of good information.
Dawn Pugh Psychotherapist
