That Christmas Time of Year - Part 1

So here we are again in the lead in time to Christmas. Whether you love Christmas or loathe it, Christmas has the potential to be a stressful time of year. So here are some tips to help you through the Christmas period.
Decide which Christmas activities and traditions are most significant to you. Only participate in those activities that have significance for you and decline the activities which cause stress or are insignificant for you.
Christmas time tends to be a time when people spend more money than they can afford. Make a Christmas budget and stick with it.
Take care of yourself. Eat right, get enough sleep and exercise. Control your alcohol consumption and limit your indulgence in high fat or sugary foods.
Recognise signs of stress and use relaxation techniques when you begin to get irritated or upset such taking a few deep breaths, going for a walk or taking a break.
Have realistic expectations of family and friends. Just because it is Christmas, does not mean the attitudes or behaviours of relatives and friends will change. Accept this and plan how you will respond to help keep the Christmas spirit.
Make time for yourself. This time does not need to cost anything and can include going for a walk or reading a book. Schedule time for yourself during the busy Christmas period.
For help relaxing from stress contact Tracy from Relax From Stress Holistic Centre on 086-2202734 or visit www.relaxfromstress.ie.
Published in the Connaught Telegraph newspaper on 5 December 2017