7 Steps for a Stress-Free Christmas
Does Christmas make you feel frazzled? If so, Mummy Mojo has the ultimate Christmas present for you: seven steps for a less stressful, more mojo-filled Christmas. Take a deep breath, read on and let us help you on your way to relaxation city.
#1 Have some "me" time
The holiday season is intended to be a time for rest, relaxation and joy in our hectic lives - that includes you! Having quality ‘me’ time is the key to keeping your mojo cup full. If you're headed into Christmas feeling stressed out and burned out and over it already - stop. Go and do something for YOU. You're allowed to feel good and look after your own needs. Whether that means doing some yoga stretches, taking a long hot shower, having a cup of coffee in peace and quiet, or going for a run, just make sure you do it. Honouring yourself a little bit each day allows you to show up in the world as your best self. Fill your own cup first and your loved ones will truly get the best of you.
#2 Share the load
No matter how much we try to simplify it each year, there just always seems to be so much to do at Christmas. Wherever possible try to delegate some of the tasks - doing everything yourself is plain exhausting and will leave you feeling resentful. Enrol your partner / kids as helpers in the housework, food prep and other errands. Better still, put on some cheesy Christmas music, don your most cheerful festive hats, and you can actually have fun, making some magical memories along the way.
#3 Get 8 hours of sleep each night
Getting enough quality sleep will allow you to wake refreshed, ready to face the day. But switching off from the ‘chatter’ and racing thoughts in your mind can be difficult. When you’re preparing for sleep, ensure your bedroom is quiet, dark and well ventilated. Try sipping on a soothing herbal tea before bed and maintain regular sleeping patterns, including on weekends.
#4 Eat healthy food
Good nutrition is the cornerstone of good health. Diet has a major impact on our mood and well-being but it can be difficult to stay healthy with the abundance of social occasions during the holiday period. Try and balance any indulgent dinners or lunches with healthy meals and alcohol-free days.
#5 Do something for others
If you’re find yourself getting stressed and overwhelmed, take a moment to put everything into perspective and think of those less fortunate than you. Sadly, Christmas can be one of the loneliest times of the year for many people. Try doing something for others, like donating to a charity or volunteering in your local community. Helping to make a difference in the lives of others is an extremely rewarding feeling.
#6 Get moving
There’s no excuse for not exercising during the holiday period. Regular exercise not only keeps your waistband in shape, it also helps to relax tense muscles and encourages a better night’s sleep. Exercise releases endorphins into your blood stream, encouraging feelings of happiness and improving your sense of wellbeing. So hit the gym, go for a refreshing swim or take a brisk walk to help clear the mind and revitalise you.
#7 Try taking a stress supplement
Priming your body with Adaptogens can help strengthen its capacity to resist and reduce stress. Adaptogens—such as ashwagandha, eleuthero, and wolfberry—are unique plants that have been studied for their abilities to act as metabolic regulators and support mental and physical performance. I take Ionix Supreme to supply my body with stress-fighting Adaptogens.