Incredible as it may be, Christmas is upon us and, yet again, it may not be the traditional festive break we ordinarily look forward to.
We are once again under the twinkling lights and the apprehension of the pandemic. With tales of toy shortages, bare shelves, and increasing case numbers, this year we may find our stress is wrapped up with a bright red bow. But we have been here before and we have figured out a few ways to have a stress-free Christmas.
Plan Ahead
It goes without saying, but this is not the year to be running into the supermarket or the shopping centre on Christmas Eve for those last bits and pieces. Plan ahead and tick that list off. Not only will this give you peace of mind that everything is in and ready for the festive period, but also gives you time to enjoy the glistening run-up to Christmas without the shopping list to worry about.
Shop Online
And if December disappears in a misty haze of cold mornings and PCR tests, shop online. Watch your spending limit though! Shopping online has so many advantages but can get a little out of hand when we’re trigger happy. Keep in mind the chaos that can happen with the postal service and couriers in the run up to Christmas too.
Lean In
We are all hoping for a normal Christmas this year but we have to keep in mind that we are still not back to normal living just yet, and the holidays may come with a few tweaks once again. Building our expectations may result in impulsive worry or stress when events are cancelled, or plans pulled. Lean in to this temporary normality and build a celebration that is wonderfully memorable in its own way. Remember, that we are not looking for the perfect Christmas this year, but rather, one that is good enough, happy, and stress-free.
Stay Safe
No one wants to be sick over Christmas. It’s the time of year many of us look forward to the most as we gather with family, and watch the kids open their much-anticipated presents. We can certainly do without the tissues, aches, and chills. Protect yourself and your family this winter by getting the flu vaccine (available as a nasal spray for children aged 2 to 12 years old), and keeping up to date with the guidelines to protect you and yours from Covid-19. Stay safe.
Focus On What Matters
This year, unlike last year, we may have a good idea as to what may happen with restrictions, lockdowns, and the unbalance of it all. Give yourself permission to relax, to love, to be free of stress and worry under the twinkling lights with your family. Focus on what matters and soak up the season by being truly in the moment.
