It may be Christmas, generally this is when everybody should be jolly, but what if you feel like the original Grinch? We’ve asked naturopath, nutritionist and Eagle Natural Health Advisor Teresa Mitchell-Paterson for some simple tricks to help you, and your family, enjoy the festive season.
There’s no denying that this time of the year can be stressful. Whether you’re worried about finances, seeing your grumpy old uncle, or just wondering how you’re possibly going to fit everything in, it all adds up to a big pile of pressure. Here are some tips to relax this Christmas:
1.Be prepared
One in five Australians suffer from emotional and mental issues throughout the year, and the festival holidays can sometimes magnify anxiety and depression. A good way to help reduce the build-up of stress is to be prepared, mentally, emotionally and physically. Try adding a couple of items into your shopping basket each week – this will help alleviate paying for Christmas in one fell swoop. Make friends with your to-do list. Writing down what needs to be done (alongside who can do them), before you go to sleep at night, can stop those 3am worry hours.
2.Put yourself first
Remember that you can’t please all of the people, all of the time. Ask your family what Christmas means to them – it’s most likely that they want to spend the day together as a family, making happy memories, rather than spending hundreds of dollars on disposable presents and a lavish lunch. So, do away with those fiddly canapes, writing endless Christmas cards (save money and trees with e-cards instead), and a perfectly decorated home. Instead, concentrate on how you’re going to have fun instead: is a family game, inflatable toys for the pool, or spending the rest of the day relaxing, the way to go after the present opening?
3.Call in favours
There’s no need to do it all yourself. If you’re hosting the family for Christmas Day, then delegate courses, the setting up, and any fiddly, time-consuming jobs. Sure, you’ll need to manage it, but that’s a lot better than feeling like everything’s on your shoulders.
4.Take time out
Amongst all this activity, it’s important to fit in some time for yourself. Even just ten minutes of mindful meditation in the mornings, followed by a relaxing cup of herbal tea can help you begin the day on the right track.
As often as you can, take at least 30 minutes to go for a walk, do some stretching, or have a swim. You may think you don’t have time for it, but this will give you time to clear your head and enjoy a break.
5.Balance your diet
What you eat has a great impact on the way your body handles stress. Aim for a balanced diet of green, leafy vegetables, fresh fruit and lean meat protein. Foods which are fermented can also help to balance good bacteria into your gut. Try yoghurt, sauerkraut, miso and kefir.
A daily probiotic supplement can also help reduce your stress and anxiety levels. Look for one which contains Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum as these have been shown to help improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.
Limit your alcohol intake, and aim to have at least 3-4 booze-free nights a week. It’ll help you get a restful night’s sleep and you won’t be dreading your to-do list the next day.
Depression and anxiety are serious medical conditions and you should consult your healthcare practitioner to discuss your particular needs to optimise your health.
For more information, visit https://eaglenaturalhealth.com.au/health-wellness/.
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