As Christmas approaches, stress levels often increase. It’s common to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and out of control during this time of year. However, with a few small changes, you can better understand what’s happening in your body and mind, helping to make this Christmas stress-free.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and your ‘to do’ list is probably a mile long:  presents to buy, parties to attend, outfits to plan, menus to organise, cards and present wrapping, who has to be where and when, who’s coming to visit, what do they eat or drink, various school or work dates for the diary…and all the other demands of the Christmas season.  This can leave you feeling like you’re carrying the ‘weight of the world on your shoulders’ just like the Greek god Atlas.

In today's rapidly advancing technological world, social media can increase stress and anxiety levels due to constant advertisements, deals, and discounts this time of year.

Stress is a natural response that prepares your body to either fight, take flight or freeze.  You may notice physical sensations like muscle tension, rapid breathing, a pounding heart, dry mouth, headaches or butterflies in the stomach.  These are your body’s way of responding to perceived threats, whether it’s a real danger or a long ‘to-do’ list, the body has no way of differentiating.  The good news is there are some simple techniques you can use to manage Christmas stress:

1. Tune into your body – take a few minutes to notice any tension, such as tight or hunched shoulders, a niggling pain in the neck, tension in the lower back, clenched teeth, a lump in your throat or the start of a headache.
2. Breathe Deeply – if your breathing is shallow and in your chest, it signals your body is on high alert. Slow it down by breathing deeply into your belly, counting to 5 or 6 on the inhale and exhale.
3. Make a Plan – use a notebook or notes in your phone to write down everything you need to do. Getting it out of your head and onto paper will free up mental space for relaxation.
4. Prioritise what matters: focus on your Christmas traditions and experiences that are most important to you and your loved ones.  Let go of unnecessary tasks or obligations.  It may be visiting Santa, watching old movies, singing the same carols or visiting loved ones.
5. Think of others this Christmas – shift your focus outwards by doing small acts of kindness, like donating to charity or checking in on elderly neighbours. Helping others is a proven way to reduce stress.
6. Practice self-hypnosis. Self-hypnosis has been shown to effectively reduce anxiety and stress while developing relaxation skills.  Try affirming “I now feel calm, relaxed and confident”.

This Christmas, I’m offering gift vouchers – the perfect present for a stressed-out loved-one.  With a little preparation and some simple stress management techniques, you can enjoy a relaxed and meaningful Christmas with your loved ones.  Remember, the most important thing is to be present and find joy in the moment.