How to beat stress and keep calm this Christmas

By Health and Wellbeing Expert Stephanie Taylor at StressNoMore

A recent study showed people are more excited than ever for this year’s festivities, with a quarter admitting they started their Christmas shopping as early as August.

Thankfully, it’s looking likely that this year will be restriction-free following the UK’s double vaccine and now booster jab rollout nationwide.

But while planning for a “bigger and better Christmas” is exciting to many, for others, it can be an extremely anxiety-inducing time, especially given the challenges of the past 18 months.

In fact, even before the pandemic, a quarter of the population said they find Christmas more stressful than any other time of year.

So, to help you beat stress and enjoy a happy, healthy Christmas, Health and Wellbeing Expert Stephanie Taylor at StressNoMore offers her top tips…

Prepare, to an extent

August may seem too early to even begin to think about Christmas, but preparing early can help to avoid stress, particularly with the threat of shortages.

Now that Halloween and Bonfire night are done and dusted, it’s time to start getting organised.

Preparing a list of gift ideas, meal planning and mapping out your social calendar can help you feel more in control and minimise the stress that comes with making last-minute decisions.

But it’s important not to pile on the pressure and feel like you need to get everything sorted straight away. This stage is about getting a plan in place and spacing out your to-do list, so you’re not overwhelmed in the lead-up to Christmas.

Remember, it’s the thought that counts

Each year, the average spend on presents increases and this year is no different, despite rising pressures on household budgets.

But are material things really the meaning of Christmas? Short answer is no.

Remember, spending quality time with your loved ones is what it’s really about, and creating further financial stress after what’s likely been a tough year for many might only result in more stress and anxiety in the long run.

Make sure to set yourself a realistic budget for your Christmas spending and try to stick to it.

Be savvy and shop around for your gifts or wait for Black Friday when many popular items will be significantly discounted.

Consider making your own gifts too. Sweet festive treats, flavoured tipples, handmade Christmas tree decorations and scented candles can all be made at home with a small spend on equipment or ingredients.

Sure, they may take a little time, energy, and effort, but that’s what make homemade gifts so special.

Don’t say yes to everything

After missing out on social events during COVID-19, you might feel like you need to say yes to every celebration you’re invited to this Christmas, but it’s ok to say no.

Packing your calendar too tight in the lead-up to Christmas will only leave you feeling overwhelmed, burnt out or resentful.

Follow Marie Kondo’s approach – if it doesn’t spark joy, don’t do it. Only say yes to things you want to do with people you want to spend time with.

And make sure to leave yourself some “me time” to relax and unwind in between plans too.

Look after your mind and body

It’s important to take care of your health and wellbeing during the festive period, as well as enjoying the food, drink and social events.

Try to balance your diet across the week to give your body the essential nutrients it needs to stay healthy and energised, while allowing yourself some time to indulge.

Get outside and breathe in the fresh air. If working out or running isn’t your thing, a fast-paced walk can do wonders for your wellbeing – both physically and mentally.

Most importantly, listen to your mind and body. If you’re not feeling good, rest and recharge, or seek advice from a health professional.
And remember that COVID-19 is still a real threat, so don’t do anything you’re not comfortable with and follow the guidelines as far as possible.