Health: Frazzled by the Festive Frenzy? Follow These Tips to Make Christmas Stress-Free
At a time when we should be looking forward to the fun and enchantment of Christmas, most of us are running around frantically trying to get that elusive last-minute present or the pillar candles to set the mood. The preparations can leave you frazzled, and soon, Christmas becomes little more than a chore. By re-thinking your approach, it is possible to reduce stress levels and make Christmas a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Breathe
Decking the halls with boughs of holly may seem like the most festive and fun thing in the world, but the reality of the modern Christmas can lead to an undue amount of stress. We feel duty-bound to plan, buy, and wrap, as well as color-coordinate the tree and decorations and locate some mistletoe to boot. Superwoman thinks all is in hand until she remembers she is working up until Christmas Eve and the house looks like a bombsite. Stress has noticeable effects on the cardiovascular system and we have all felt our heart beat faster during a moment of anxiety. Stress is the leading cause of high blood pressure, and even a small event can cause the blood vessels to constrict. Relaxation techniques and breathing exercises can help minimize the effect stress has on the cardiovascular system. Inhale through your nose and count slowly to four. Try to fill your lungs from the lowest part to the highest part, pushing out your abdomen, then your lower ribs, then your chest as your body fills with air. Hold your breath for three seconds. Exhale, and try to let air out as you let it in, from the lowest to the highest parts of your lungs. Repeat for five to ten minutes.
Cheat
Conserve your time and energy by cutting corners. Source companies that can deliver quality fresh food products for the Christmas meal, saving you from having to do battle in the shops on Christmas Eve. Compromise with some pre-prepared vegetables and desserts, and utilize gift-wrapping services for any last-minute presents. Get your booze supplies delivered to the door and ask a local florist to deliver some festive arrangements. If you can’t face dragging a tree home, find a company that will deliver, opt for a fake one, or drape some fairy lights around an external tree or bush.
Delegate
Don’t be fooled into thinking that having someone to peel the spuds on the day will suffice. If you are expecting an onslaught of relatives for lunch, give them appropriate tasks that will save you time and temper tantrums. There is always a wine buff, so ask them to choose the wine so it will perfectly complement the meal and be chilled and poured just when it is needed (NB the chef is always entitled to sample the wine in advance of the meal).
Say No
It is very easy to put pressure on yourself trying to achieve a Christmas that is perfect in every way. Whether it is the inner voice telling you to buy the expensive champagne you can’t really afford, or accepting an invitation to a social gathering that you really don’t want to attend. Stop. Say no. Once you have things running the way you want them to, feel in control and don’t let yourself be coerced by others. You will enjoy the festive season all the more.
Organize
Write a list of the practical things you want to achieve over the next few days so you can tick them off the list and feel no guilt when you take time out for yourself. Having a list will clear your head and give you a better perspective of what needs to be done. A little judicious paring of the list will leave you with just the essentials – is it really necessary to serve pepperdew and goats cheese crostinis?
Turkey and Booze
A little too much festive spirit over the next while can leave you feeling tired and washed out. While a little alcohol stimulates the production of digestive enzymes (hence having an aperitif), drinking a lot will have the opposite effect. This is particularly noteworthy at a time when excess eating and drinking occurs with some regularity, and many complain of indigestion. While your liver is coping with the alcohol (a poison) in the system, digestive function is impaired and any food eaten during the period you are drinking, or the hangover period, can remain unprocessed, so you suffer bloating and nausea.
Focus on Fun
If you don’t want to suffer from Christmas burnout, switch the phone to answerphone (do you really want to have a lecture on the correct way to cook turkey from your mother?) and focus on yourself each day. Schedule in time for enjoyable things. Luxuriate in a bath, go for a walk in the country to collect holly, or book yourself in for a hair or beauty treatment. Really think about what it is you want to do this Christmas, and if having a glossy magazine-inspired Christmas is important or realistic. This is your holiday time, so see friends and do the things that make you smile and remember the saying, “don’t sweat the small stuff”. It’s all true.
Hotels: A Home Away From Home for the Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, many find themselves facing the dilemma of where to stay during this festive time. Hotels offer a convenient and comfortable solution for those looking to enjoy their holidays away from home. Here are some reasons why hotels can be an excellent choice for accommodation during the holiday season:
1. Stress-Free Experience
By opting to stay in a hotel, you can avoid the stress of holiday preparations, such as cleaning and cooking, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the festivities. Hotels often offer festive décor, special events, and activities, creating a joyful atmosphere for guests.
2. Convenience
Hotels provide the convenience of having everything you need in one place. From dining options to entertainment facilities, you can find everything within the hotel premises. This eliminates the need for extensive travel and allows you to make the most of your time during the holiday season.
3. Special Offers and Packages
During the holiday season, many hotels offer special packages and deals tailored for festive stays. These packages may include meals, spa treatments, or access to holiday events, providing added value for guests.
4. Meeting New People
Staying in a hotel during the holiday season provides an opportunity to meet fellow travelers and share in the holiday spirit. Hotels often organize social events and gatherings, allowing guests to connect and create memorable experiences together.
5. Professional Assistance
Hotels have dedicated staff who are trained to provide excellent service and assist guests with any requests or concerns. From arranging transportation to recommending local attractions, their expertise can enhance your holiday experience.
6. Safety and Security
Hotels prioritize the safety and security of their guests. With 24/7 personnel, surveillance systems, and secure access control, you can have peace of mind during your stay, knowing that your well-being is taken care of.
If you are considering spending your holiday season away from home, hotels offer a comfortable and enjoyable alternative. With their amenities, festive ambiance, and attentive staff, hotels can provide a memorable experience that allows you to fully embrace the holiday spirit.