Christmas is nearly here! Festive fun, presents, family and good food. Well that's the finished result anyway.
What about all of the hard work before it gets to the fun part? Months of budgeting, shopping, wrapping, planning meals, organising family and remembering to move the elf on the shelf every night!
As much as we love it, it can be very stressful or, at the very least, very tiring. It is so important to look after yourself during this time. If you wear yourself down or burn out, all of your hard work would have been in vain as you just won't be able to relax and enjoy it.
There are some simple, holistic ways to practice your own self-care this festive season, so that you can enjoy it to the fullest.
Allocate time
Allocate yourself some time each day, even if it is just half an hour. Take yourself somewhere quiet, to read, go for a run or take a bath, so that you recharge your body and mind.
Use loving energy
Keep a rose quartz crystal on your person, either a tumble stone or piece of jewellery, or in your handbag. Rose quartz emits loving energy, surrounding you with love, positivity and protection. It is also a wonderful stone to have in the house over the holidays.
Communicate
Emotions can run high at this time of year. Good communication is key. Ask for help if you need it. Write a list of tasks for the family to pitch in with and ask for their support. It can be exciting to all get involved in Christmas together.
Treat yourself
When you are rushing around buying all the presents and wrapping them lovingly, don't forget about you too. Reward yourself for all of your hard work and buy yourself a treat. You can even wrap it if you want!
Be present
Take your time and allow yourself to experience what this season brings. Take in the nativity plays through your own eyes, not a screen. Sit back with a coffee and enjoy every moment of the present opening. Deal with the mess at the end. Sit down and enjoy your Christmas meal and appreciate this quality time with your family. Breathe it all in and s