Holiday Season

December 2020

The holiday season is upon us and with this comes the festivities and celebrating but also for many can be a time of extreme stress. For some it is becoming too busy, or others financial and for others perhaps the stress it brings with families and friends. 

This year has been a crazy year, one that has caused many of us to have significant changes in our lives and so today we will look at some tips on supporting your wellbeing over the holiday season.

Connect (Me Whakawhanaunga)

Feel lonely this Christmas? Christmas can be a tough time of year. Talking to and interacting with the people around you, whether that be family, neighbours or a friendly ‘hello’ to the person standing in the queue behind you at the shops, may help. Join in with a Christmas party, become involved with groups or smile at a stranger - you’ll be surprised at what you get back

Give to others (tukua)

Feeling stressed this Christmas? Christmas can be a great time of year to do something for someone else. It doesn’t have to break the bank – something as simple as a smile or a ‘thank you' can help with your own wellbeing as well as theirs, or it can be as simple as giving your time. Maybe offer to mow your neighbours lawn or bake a cake for a friend.

Take notice (me aro tanu)

Have too much to do before Christmas? Often we can be so focused on growing to do list that we forget to pay attention to what is happening now. Take notice of your surroundings, take notice and remember the simple things that bring you joy. Maybe learn a new and useful technique for becoming more aware of life as it is happening. Stop for a while; take 10 mindful breaths in and out, calming the body and mind, then simply rest where you are noticing everything that is going on around you.

Keep learning (me ako tonu)

Stuck for Christmas present ideas? Why not learn a new skill? It can not only improve your wellbeing but also make for exciting, personal Christmas presents. Save Santa’s elves a job or two! Embrace new experiences, maybe try something new or rediscover an old interest.

Be active (me kori tonu)

And lastly, OUR FAVOURITE!!! Are you feeling tired and exhausted in the run up to Christmas? Research suggests keeping active can help beat tiredness, especially when combined with fresh air! Why not try a walk around a Christmas market, a brisk stroll around the countryside or even roller skating (it’s the new thing apparently)? OR combine this with connect and ask a friend to join you for a walk!

 

Some other things to think about 

  1. Keep your expectations of the festive period realistic. Many of us have a perfect vision of what the holidays should look like, and are disappointed when they don’t live up to their expectations. Remember, nobody has a perfect holiday or a perfect family, so don’t pressure yourself to live up to unrealistic standards!
  2. Coping with anxiety. Christmas parties and events can be stressful if you struggle with social anxiety. Don’t feel pressured to say ‘yes’ to every invitation – you are allowed to decide which festive events and traditions are more important and enjoyable for YOU, and decline the activities which cause you unnecessary stress.
  3. Christmas prep causing stress? Christmas can be a huge source of stress, and it’s easy to feel there’s too much to organise, or too much pressure on you – but don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. Ask a friend or family member to help you with chores, or contact local mental health services who can offer support, advice and resources.
  4. Take some ‘me time’. The holidays can be an overwhelmingly social time, with gatherings of family, friends and colleagues. Don’t forget that you’re allowed to set aside some ‘me time’ as well, such as curling up to read a favourite book or watch a Christmas TV special.