I don't know about you, but I love this time of year... until I don't!
Winter time is exactly when we're supposed to be following nature's lead, slowing down a little and retreating, nurturing ourselves and reflecting on the year that's been. But instead, we're out there burning the candle at both ends... trying to hit end of year work deadlines, squeezing in ridiculous amounts of Christmas shopping and making merry at the endless list of social events that made their way into the calendar!
And we wonder why we're run down and full of cold by the time the holidays actually arrive!
The key thing I have learnt over the years as we enter into the Silly Season, is to be more mindful about what I take on, remembering not to stretch myself unnecessarily. In the past, I spent so many Christmases feeling run down and I now know it takes a bit of foresight and planning upfront for me to be able to feel relaxed and well by the time the break comes. So these days, I make a commitment to not filling every minute of every weekend throughout December. When I go out socially, I make sure I get to bed as close to normal time as possible, maintaining my routine so my circadian rhythm isn't disrupted (as this has a massive impact on how we feel and even our immune system can be immediately affected).
I guess to some this might seem a bit boring and let's face it, we're all different, so you have to reflect on what it is you and your body need to be at your best. The extroverts reading might require way more connecting and socialising than I do to thrive (word of warning though, even extroverts need rest and recharge!). But for me, thinking ahead of time about what my mind, body and soul need to truly flourish all throughout the winter months, and especially the Christmas break, means being really careful about not pushing so hard leading up to the hols. I used to be so over-optimistic about what I could fit in and how much energy I would have so these days I remind myself to be more realistic. In reality, becoming a parent means you have to reinvent how you approach things, especially how you spend your time and energy, and how you top it up. Your idea of fun can evolve just as your life has.
I'm more conscious of my emotional and physical battery levels than ever this year. It's been a bit of a tough one personally, and you only have to listen to the news for a few minutes to realise that so many people around the world are in crisis right now. My heart goes out to those who are suffering and it's a reminder to put my life and worries into perspective. My stresses are still real, but I have so much to be grateful for and gratitude is a mighty powerful tool.
When it comes to our health and wellbeing, there is always a place for festivities to give us a much needed boost. But that might not mean simply making merry and over-indulging. Looking for a deeper connection and meaning at this time of year might give us a much more powerful charge.
A few years ago, I designed The Ultimate Self-Care Tool Kit, a framework to guide busy people in pressing pause and making a few tweaks and adjustments so they feel equipped with a tool kit that truly supports their wellbeing. I'm still massively passionate about this course as it pulls together everything I have learnt about health, happiness and wellbeing and provides really practical and easy to implement activities. So as we approach the Silly Season, I'd like to offer The Ultimate Self-Care Tool Kit with a festive twist, to help you set yourself up for success at this time of year.
First of all, let's consider what success means... a successful end to the year for me personally looks like enjoying a lovely mix of social activities whilst still...
Having energy and focus for my work to ensure I'm adding value to my clients through to the hols, and I'm set up with projects for the year ahead.
Finding ways to give back, connect with my community and share in the spirit of Christmas.
Always taking care of my self and my family, with plenty of sleep and down time in between socials to recharge (such as nature walks) and every day, replenishing with good quality, nutritious food.
Feeling fit and well (and bug free) by the time Christmas arrives so my family and I can enjoy a mix of activities that fully charge up our batteries to see us through the remainder of winter that lays ahead.
What does success look like for you?
If you're interested in implementing a festive version of The Ultimate Self-Care Tool Kit, check out my free 30-minute training session right here: Festive Wellbeing
If you're fed up with running yourself down every December and falling in a heap of exhaustion at Christmas, why not make this year a bit different?
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