How to Stay Calm over the Festival Time

The festive season is meant to be a time of joy - being with loved ones, a rest from work or studying, giving and receiving gifts.

The reality is often far removed from the intention. Experiences can range from too many people in the house with tensions between the generations or individuals, to someone on their own feeling left out and extremely lonely.

The preparations for gatherings and gifts can be onerous taking the joy from the occasion.

If you are experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed, financial stress or dread of the December festivities, it is time to take a step back and evaluate what you want this time to bring for you and your loved ones.

Gifts can come in many forms. They do not have to be lavish expensive ones. The key is to keep them simple. Gifts can be a treat, something you make yourself or a simple kindness.

As a widow my children did not have an adult that could help them with their presents, so they often made them.  My daughter loved to cook and often made we sweets and my son made me a card I could cash in for a chore. How imaginative, I valued these simple presents more than expensive presents provided by a partner on the child's behalf. My children had thought about me and made an effort to provide me with a gift under the Christmas tree. I celebrated they had learnt to give as well as to receive.

Christmas Day Challenge - for those of you with a busy day, try to start it with a few calm moments for yourself, also think about giving a relative or friend a ring if you think they may be on their own. 

For those of you having a quiet Christmas, be kind to yourself and love yourself.  Cook yourself some food you like and give yourself some treats.

Everybody's Christmas is different. We make Christmas stressful for ourselves. Find calmness during the Christmas festival. Keep your gifts simple and find some quiet time during a hectic day. Remember those who may be on their own. If you have a quiet Christmas, love yourself and give yourself some treats.

Try to find a way that brings you some joy into your day.