For Christmas presents this year we’re making hampers for everyone, because I thought it would be cheaper and less hassle. And with a few days left to go until we distribute said hampers I’m wondering if it was worth it. It’s definately cheaper but less hassle? No way! I still haven’t bought the actual hampers that the homemade-ish gifts are going in and I have 12 camenberts honking to high heaven every time we open the fridge door!
Luckily, we don’t have long and detailed plans for travelling around this Christmas. It’ll be spent here, in Bristol with my mum and dad for company. This automatically reduces some of the pressure felt by many at Christmas i.e no travelling with a toddler.
There will still be lots to do and I’m mindful that this is a time for family and peace, but how many of us have come through the festive season feeling bloated and tired? It doesn’t have to be that way.
Here are some tips to help you find a bit of peace in your body and mind this Christmas:
- Delegate. Allow others to help in the kitchen. Don’t be a martyr or control freak or you’ll be frazzled when you sit down to eat. Let someone chop, lay the table poor the drinks…go on, let go!
- Don’t eat so much. You, yes YOU are in control of how much you put into your body. Put your cutlery down in between bites and chew properly. Your digestive system will thank you so much for this.
- Breathe. If you find being with your family difficult and/or intense, remember that under stress your breathing becomes shallow, perpetuating the stress cycle. Put your hand on your belly and let your breath fill your lungs from the bottom. Do this slowly and for a couple of breaths only – we don’t want you passing out! If you get chance take of for half an hour on your own and walk or do some yoga nidra. 20 mintes of yoga nidra is equivalent to 1 hour of deep sleep – YES!
- Sleep. Get as much sleep as you can. Like stress, lack of sleep really messes with your mind and body so be assertive. Be the first to go and enjoy your much needed slumber.
- Drink plenty of water. Not loads, and not a specific amount. Just enough to help you feel hydrated. Drink room temperature water in sips throughout the day. One way to monitor how hydrated you are is the colour of your wee. Too dark, not enough, too light too much…straw colour and your internal organs will be doing a high five!
- Forgive and be thankful. Give yourself a break and don’t set really high expectations. Forgive yourself or anyone who needs forgiveness. Any issues we have with others are usually about issues unresolved within ourselves. Rember that when you’re delegating, eating slowly, drinking water, breathing……!
Merry Christmas everyone and thanks to all who’ve made 2014 a really great year for me.
With love, Gemma
Gemma David says
Thanks Alice x