Self-Care for Christmas 2020

This year has been a journey, there is no denying that. 2020 brought us uncertainty, fear, grief, loss, illness and a pandemic that that shook many of us to the core.

For others it was a time to reset, recharge and refresh. We, as a society, got sent to our rooms to think about what we’d done. Living the fast life, having everything at our fingertips, more waste, more screens, less conversations, so much connection but so little real communication and a very filtered lifestyle. The planet suffered as did our mental well-being.  And while we are beginning to see the end of this year, the effects of the COVID-19 Global Pandemic will affect many of us for longer. During the festive period, a typically challenging time for so many people, it is important to be especially mindful of our own self-care and well-being.

Christmas 2020 will be different and that is something that is helpful to accept. The celebrations will not be the same but remember - it is still something still worth celebrating. Here in Northern Ireland the restrictions include having a bubble of no more than 6 people from 3 households from the 23rd until the 27th December where they can all spend time together in a home, a place of worship or an outdoor place. Meet ups in pubs, hotels or theatres will not be allowed. So this year, there will be no Christmas parties, pantomime visits or festive drinks with friends.

There may be an under-lying worry about being in contact with vulnerable or high risk members of the family, anxiety about finances with the current economic situation and job losses or hours cut throughout the year and of course the anxiety on the uncertainty of restrictions during this period. The lead up to Christmas will be very different than what we are used to – there will be a very silent (or non-existent) nightlife, the high street is already eerily quiet, there will be shop closures and more shopping online and of course there will be certain family members missing. It may be a much quieter and potentially isolating yule tide season for many.

While this can be extremely difficult – it is often helpful to look for the positives in uncertain times like these. We are here, we are healthy and on a less important note, think of all the money you will save on socialising!

What can we do to keep Christmas semi normal?

Despite the fact that we cannot take a romantic and atmospheric walk along the continental markets this year with a Glühwein in one hand and a bag full of unnecessary gifts in another, this can be re-created at home. We have more time than ever, and more small businesses are offering little Christmas hampers with the ingredients to try and do similar from the comfort of your own household. So turn on those Christmas lights, ask Alexa to turn Michel Bublé on loud and enjoy the alternative Christmas Market vibes.

We get so much joy from putting thought and effort into gifting the ones we love so why not craft your presents or cards this year? These are the gifts that great memories in years to come. What looks like a very random Christmas tree decoration now will remind you in the future of how far you have come.

Without the in real life socialising and since we are all Zoom experts now, why not have a Christmas Party online? Ok, so it’s just not the same as going to a fancy restaurant, eating, drinking and being merry but it is the next best thing and a great excuse to dress up!

And as there are no panto’s – oh no there’s not! – find your nearest drive in. Shout the words loud and feel good about it. And stay safe within your car restrictions!

How to manage self-care this Christmas

Try to avoid over-indulgence
The impact of over doing food can have a negative effect on our bodies both mentally and physically so remember your boundaries.

Drink responsibly
Know your limits when having a Christmas tipple. Enjoy the eggnog but drink in moderation!

Keep Active
Try to keep your routines of getting fresh air, even a walk for 15 minutes a day will have a positive impact on your well-being.

Remember grounding techniques
If it does get too much remember your grounding techniques – check out our blog post on this! https://www.impossiblementalhealth.com/blog/who-me-ive-never-had-anxiety.

Move at your own pace
Don’t compare your own situation with what you see on social media or what was your typical Christmas. Measure by your own standards.

Make time for yourself
Most of all enjoy this period, take advantage of having loved ones around you, Christmas movies, the beautiful cold crisp weather and find joy in the little things every day.

Stay safe, stay healthy and remember a pathway to a calmer and more present life is possible. Get in touch to know more!