7 Wellbeing Tips For The Festive Period
With Halloween now behind us, the attention once again turns to the festive Christmas period ahead. For many of us this period is fraught with emotions of all kinds from joy to sadness and everything in between. It is important to keep our overall wellbeing at the forefront during this period especially as there is so much going on at any one time. There are lists to be made, presents to get and wrap, food to plan and other peoples feelings to navigate at this festive time. This got me thinking about ways in which wellbeing can be incorporated into this period to help us deal with this season more calmly, intentionally and come out on the other side with our sanity and sense of wellbeing intact.
Nutrition
It’s important to keep on top of nutrition this silly season, not to say that we can’t indulge in festive treats however we can also ensure that we are getting plenty of the good stuff into our systems too. Some nice seasonal goodies in the form of colourful fruit and vegetables and maybe even some supplements and adaptogens to help and support our nervous system through the festive period. Some examples of adaptogens are turmeric and maca. I will do a post solely on adaptogens and the wider role they play in supporting us especially in stressful times at a later time.
Self Care
As caregivers, we tend to make this season mostly about our loved ones and nearest and dearest to us which is great! However we should also remember to give some of the care and love to ourselves, it isn’t selfish to want to have some self care as it is important that we are not running on empty ourselves while preparing for the festive season. Self care can be simple and affordable like treating yourself to a nice warm bath or taking some time out to meditate and do some breath work or if you want to it can be a full on spa day or treatment. The important thing here is that you are taking some time out for yourself so as to avoid burnout and overwhelm this season.
Media
Now during the festive season we are bombarded with all sorts of media on tv, radio and social media. This time is important to be selective about the kind of media we are consuming especially when taking our mental health into consideration. Try to weed out the more negative sides of the media and focus or refocus on more happy, positive and progressive media. Try watching some feel good movies and listening to some happy uplifting tunes to lift the spirits. As far as social media is concerned you don’t have to get caught up in all the frenzy and the feelings of comparison that can arise during this time of year. Simply put if something or someone contributes into putting you into a negative headspace then maybe it is time to unfollow them.
Aromatherapy
Ah! scents and the power they have to evoke a feeling or transport us to a memory in time. I have a whole post on the power scents have on us at this time of year. From the scents we get off a diffuser with various essential oil blends to the aroma of freshly baked goods straight from the oven or even the smell of mulled wine brewing on the stove. All these aromas can be used to influence our mood and make us feel cosy and uplifted when we feel like flagging.
Social
It is the season for being social but even the most extroverted among us can feel a bit overwhelmed by the constant merry go round of festivities this season. Be sure to be selective with whom you spend your time and socialise with, hopefully they uplift you and make you feel really good as energy is contagious. You have little time in life for people who suck the energy out of you and bring you down especially at this time of year so just like you would on social media, feel free to unfollow them IRL! Spend quality time with your nearest and dearest and this is sure to bring you joy and put a big smile on your face.
Home
Make your home your sanctuary, yes at any time of the year but even more so now, maybe you have a special room to go to that makes you feel instantly tranquil. You could add some calming and cosy touches to this room this festive season, it can be your own little retreat when things become a bit hectic, somewhere to really relax and unwind when you find the time.
Movement
It is really helpful to move the body in a mindful way, anxiety and stress often have us in their grip this season. Mindful movement is a great way to burn off some heavy and unwanted energy and blow away the cobwebs. Make sure it something that you really enjoy as this will make it sustainable, this can be for example pilates, yoga, or a simple walk outdoors in nature be sure to wrap up warm!
