I look forward to Christmas every year for so many reasons, one of which being the time off from work and chance to catch up on some much needed rest and relaxation. The time off I have during the year tends to be for events or trips which are always busy so I never truly get to relax until Christmas! So let’s talk relaxation tips to benefit your mental health!
This blog post coincides with today’s prompt for The 12 Letters of Christmas Day, a festive content creation challenge Lauren, FictionTea and I have put together. I know not everyone has time off over Christmas, which most definitely sucks, but even if you’re still working, it’s so important to find time to top up on some rest. So let’s talk tips to make the most of your rest and relaxation time over the holidays.
Don’t pull yourself too thin
It’s easy to try to do everything you possible can at this time of year. It suddenly feels like Christmas is right around the corner and we still have so much we want to do. As much the things we want to do are fun, it can still be stressful to try and cram everything in. So I definitely think it’s important to know your limits and stop when it all gets too much!
Take some time to enjoy a book
Alongside not setting yourself too much to do, make sure to take time to do the things you really love. Pick up a book and enjoy some reading time with zero guilt attached to it. The beauty of Christmas is it is so widely celebrated and no one is expecting things from you, so you really can enjoy the time guilt free. It’s a time for a break if you’re able.
Reflect on the year just gone
As we say goodbye to the year and enter into a new one, I find it quite restful to look back on the year and reflect on it positively. It’s easy to focus on the negatives, especially after such a strange year, but I find great strength in being able to look back on the good and know what I want to take forward with me into the new year.
Set some goals for the year ahead
When my life feels tidy and organised, so does my brain. I find it very calming to plan out things, such as goals, and know I have everything written down in one place. I know it’s typical to start a new year feeling motivated for all you can achieve, but I really do like to start of with realistic goals I’d like to see from the new year. This year I started it determined to read more and enjoy more of what I read and I’ve done just that!
Do that thing you’ve been meaning to do all year
With only a few days of the year remaining, there’s not long to tick off those things you’ve been wanting to get done all year. With in reason as we’re obviously still very restricted at the moment. But try not to enter the new year with any regrets or excuses holding you back. Get the most out of this year before it ends and we’re into the start of another one.
