…Or is it?
I love Christmas time: the cheesy music, the loud decorations, picking small but meaningful gifts for my loved ones, the gentle and happy movies, catching up with friends, the cold crisp weather, even the fake snow (although I prefer the real thing!). The build-up to the big day is one of the times of year I look forward to the most. In my head, this looks and feels like a movie, with jingling bells and picture-postcard scenes.
I am a child at heart, and this time of year allows me to lean into this part of myself completely. Right now, I am bursting with excitement at the thought that this is our weekend to go and pick a Christmas tree.
The anticipation of twinkling lights, a beautifully aromatic and fragrant home, getting the decoration box from the attic, and spending a glorious afternoon oohing and aahing over the memories that each bauble carries makes me really happy.
But… come Christmas Day, I know there will be a big come-down. An uninvited and overwhelming sense of sadness is highly likely to envelop me and stay with me regardless of who I may be with or what I may be doing.
Does this sound familiar?
If yes, then please read on. I hope that my little guide to navigating the festive season and its pitfalls will help. I am very aware that the “forced” jolliness of Christmas can be a painfully difficult time for many people, and I don’t mean to trivialise in any way how lonely and isolated many people feel at this time of year.
I do, however, hope that for some of you this will bring some relief and help you live this potentially difficult time with a little less weight on your shoulders and a little more light in your heart.
1. You Do You
Christmas time is not for everyone, and that is absolutely OK. Over the years, I’ve learned that accepting this is key to navigating the festive season with more ease.
- Don’t like decorations? Don’t put them up. Maybe spring clean your place so it feels nice and fresh, or perhaps do nothing. The choice is yours.
- Don’t see the point of frivolous spending on gifts you may struggle to afford? Don’t do it. This year, my family and I have agreed to a £5 Secret Santa with a meaningful twist. It’s been an expensive year for everyone, and focusing on one small, thoughtful gift feels fun and doable.
- Don’t want to cook extravagant meals? Christmas dinner at our house often consists of fish finger sandwiches or something equally simple. Minimal cooking means less stress and more time to enjoy being together.
- Spending Christmas away from loved ones? This can be tough, but it’s possible to make the best of it. Treat yourself to a lazy breakfast in bed, read that book you’ve been meaning to open, cook your favourite meal, and connect with loved ones via technology. Use the time to slow down, learn a new skill, or simply focus on self-care.
- Feeling sadness? Acknowledge it and give yourself permission to feel those emotions—but set a timeline. When it’s up, move your body, look in the mirror, and connect with yourself. Honour what you need. Trust me, it’s a powerful way to lighten the load, including Christmas sadness.
2. Nourish Yourself
The holidays can often lead to overindulgence, leaving us feeling heavy and guilt-ridden. Moderation and nourishment are key—physically and spiritually.
- Physical nourishment: Eat well and stay hydrated. Batch-cook meals for when you’re too tired to cook, and keep healthy snacks like fruit or nuts at hand. Add immunity-boosting ingredients like ginger, garlic, and onion to your meals. Balance indulgence with light, cleansing meals.
- Spiritual nourishment: Maintain your daily spiritual practices, whether it’s meditation, yoga, or reiki. This routine will help ground you and bring peace during a chaotic time. Even 30 minutes a day can make a significant difference.
3. Go Easy on the Mulled Wine
Alcohol is a depressant and can exacerbate feelings of sadness. If you choose to drink, pace yourself by alternating with water. Alternatively, explore the many alcohol-free options now available. You might find that you enjoy the festivities just as much without the hangover.
4. Get Outside
Yes, UK winters are often wet and grey, but stepping outside can work wonders for your spirit. A daily walk in nature—even in the rain—can re-energise you. If you have a dog, they’ll ensure you get outside. If not, consider helping a neighbour or friend by walking their dog. Embrace the elements, breathe deeply, and feel the life force re-energising your body.
5. Help Out
Christmas can be especially hard for those dealing with relationship breakdowns, bereavement, financial struggles, or loneliness. Volunteering can not only help others but lift your own spirits too. Whether it’s serving at a soup kitchen or simply offering a kind word, helping others is a win-win.
So here it is, my little guide to an easier Christmas season. It’s based on my own experience and what I’ve found effective. I hope it helps you navigate this time with a bit more ease.
Wishing you all a peaceful, joyful, & cosy Christmas—however you choose to spend it.
Main – Photo by Ylanite Koppens
