Christmas brings a lot of joy and happiness but it can also feel overwhelming when expectations are so high. Here are 10 tips to help take the stress out of Christmas.
1. Planning
Some people are perfectly happy to go with the flow and let Christmas just happen around them, which drives their wives crazy.
Most of us are happier when we know what needs to be done, and can tick items off lists when they are taken care of. This reduces the huge task that is Christmas into manageable chunks.
Rather than simply hit the supermarket and fill your trolly (trollies?) with everything you might possibly need, plan a rough menu for each day. Think about how many people will be present and draw up a shopping list. This will save you money, time, the effort of carrying extra items and the stress of where to put it all when you get home.
2. Extra Presents
Part of the fun at Christmas can be unexpected guests, but that can be embarrassing if they come bearing gifts.
One strategy is to buy a couple of small extra items that you quite like or enjoy.
If you need them they are ready to go, if you don't you get a little post-Christmas bonus.
3. Get Outdoors
Going for a walk is one of the best stress busters and its free.
It is especially good at Christmas when rooms full of people get stuffy, we feel uncomfortable from overeating and daylight is in short supply.
It also has the added benefit that people you meet tend to be more friendly and even in urban areas there are everyone's Christmas decorations to have a look at.
And if you manage to get everyone else out of the house it gives you a bit of time to gather your thoughts and chill.
4. Stay hydrated
Dehydration is one of the commonest causes of stress and can creep up on you with unpleasant consequences, even if you are not overdoing the partying.
Symptoms of dehydration include tiredness, headaches, dizziness, difficulty thinking, dry mouth, and nausea. None of which are what you want or need at Christmas.
The general guidelines are to drink according to your thirst but at Christmas, most of the beverages at hand are either alcoholic, contain caffeine or have a high sugar content, all of which have an adverse effect.
In addition, seasonal foods tend to have a high salt content, which adds to the problem.
Try to drink regular but small amounts of either pure water or diluted fruit juice through the day to keep your body topped. Simply having water available at mealtimes will make a big difference.
5. Watch a film
Settling down with everyone to watch a Christmas movie gives people time to slow down and relax.
Forget about your stresses and cares and lose yourself in what is happening on the screen.
Sitting down with your loved ones to share an experience gives everyone a shared memory for years to come.
6. Don't neglect healthy foods
At Christmas, lots of us throw caution to the wind and make the most of the availability of the rich food that tends to be available.
Higher in calories, seasonal treats often take over from fruit and vegetables, which can be a problem after a couple of days.
Make a point to serve vegetables or salads with meals. Keep a fruit bowl handy and offer fruit salad as a dessert option (for seconds maybe.)
7. A perfect Christmas is not down to cost
Advertising tells us that we are all entitled to a wonderful Christmas.
All we have to do is splash the cash and all our troubles will float away for a day or to.
Overspending on a budget will only cause worries over the festive season, waiting for the January bills landing on the doorstep.
Keep within your means and stay relaxed, your family and friends will appreciate that far more than a few extra pounds spent.
8. Don't spread yourself too thin
While it would be great to see all your family and friends over the Christmas period you need to be realistic.
The festive season is short, the last thing you want is to spend it traveling, then watching the clock before you head off again.
Arrange visits over the whole two week period (or more) so that you can spend quality time with people.
This goes for parties and events as well. The pantomime season goes on for months.
9. Delegate
Sharing out the tasks helps everyone to feel that they are taking part, and takes the load off your shoulders.
If relatives are coming round, take up any offers for them to bring food items. They will appreciate being able to contribute and provide you with extra time to prepare.
Encourage children to get involved, it helps to build life skills and builds a sense of responsibility.
10. Life isn't perfect
Christmas comes but once a year but all of a sudden we are expected to up our game and multi-skill and multi-task.
The chances of getting through Christmas and everything you have planned going smoothly are slim to none, no matter how much effort you have put in.
Remember the bigger picture, don't let one mishap spoil the mood and all the hard work you have put in. Even if the turkey gets cremated, the cat pulls the Christmas tree down and there's a power cut, getting through it together and in good spirits could make it your most memorable yet.
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