The Gift of Self-Care: Prioritizing Your Mental Health During the Christmas Rush

Written by: Kristie Burkett, RP-Qualifying, MACP Candidate & Alycia Oliver MA, MCP, RCC

As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with the scents of the season, the sound of carols, and excitement. Christmas, a time for joy and celebration, also brings a whirlwind of activities — shopping, decorating, cooking, and socializing. Amidst this frenzy, remember a significant aspect often overlooked: your mental health. This Christmas, let’s unwrap the gift of self-care and prioritize our well-being.

The Christmas season can often lead to increased stress and anxiety. The pressure to find perfect gifts, host perfect gatherings, and create memorable experiences can be overwhelming.

For many, this time also brings poignant reminders of lost loved ones or strained family relationships, adding complexity to the season.

Self-Care: A Necessity, Not a Luxury

Self-care is often misconstrued as a luxury, but it’s a necessity, especially during high-stress periods like the holidays. It’s about taking the time to attend to your mental, emotional, and physical health. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for maintaining a healthy balance in life. When we are most in need of self-care, we often feel overwhelmed in figuring out what that looks like for ourselves. Here’s where we step in…

Practical Tips for Self-Care During Christmas

Set Realistic Expectations

Release yourself from the pursuit of perfection. Understand that it’s okay if everything doesn’t go as planned. Embrace imperfections and find joy in the unique quirks of your holiday celebrations.

Take Time for Yourself

Amidst the hustle and bustle, carve out moments for yourself. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a long bath, or just enjoying a cup of hot cocoa in silence, these moments can be incredibly rejuvenating.

Stay Active

Physical activity is a great stress reliever. A brisk walk in the crisp winter air or a short workout session can boost your mood and energy levels. Move your body in the way that feels good for you, whether that be a yin yoga class or a HIIT workout to get the heart rate up.

Connect with Loved Ones

Christmas is about connections. Spend quality time with family and friends, but also remember it’s okay to decline invitations if you’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s about finding the right balance and connecting with the people that feel good for YOU. A hot tip here- ask yourself “do I feel drained or fulfilled after this interaction"?”.

Practice Mindfulness

Engaging in mindfulness or meditation can significantly reduce stress. Even a few minutes a day can provide a sense of calm and help you stay centred. If you do not feel that you are the “meditation” type, rest assured, there are other ways you can practice this.

Try incorporating mindfulness into your already existing routine. Have mindful showers and do mindful hand washing or teeth brushing. Focus on your 5 senses as you engage in these activities and allow your mind to settle into simply what you are doing and feeling.

Limit Social Media

Constant exposure to idealized holiday images on social media can make us feel like we’re missing out or not doing enough. Give yourself permission to take a break from social media to avoid unnecessary comparisons, it might be exactly what your nervous system needs!

Seek Help if Needed

If you find the holiday stress too much to handle, don’t hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional. There’s no shame in asking for help. You can reach out to us and book a time to meet here.

Remember, the essence of Christmas isn’t found in the celebrations but in the warmth and love shared.

By taking care of your mental health, you’re not only giving yourself a precious gift but also enhancing the quality of time spent with loved ones.

This Christmas, committ to prioritizing your mental health. By practicing self-care, you can navigate the holiday season with more joy and less stress. Need help figuring out how? Reach out to seek support from a counsellor.

Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year from the G&G team to you!