Kiddipedia
By Natalie Stockdale
(Resilience Coach & Author of the Campfire for the Heart book series)
Ah, the festive season – a time for laughter, joy, and celebration. But let’s be real – it can also bring some stress and even distress. From planning elaborate meals to navigating those ‘scratchy’ family or work gatherings, to feeling the heartache of absent loved ones, it’s important to prioritise your wellbeing during this whirlwind.
Let the following tips guide you and, if peace seems to elude you this season, remember that ‘this too shall pass’.
- Befriend Patience: By embracing the virtue of patience, you take a deep breath and approach situations with a calm mindset. Patience enables us to respond to mistakes or delays with a gentle acceptance. With patience, you don’t rush or let emotions overwhelm you. Instead, you accept that none of us are perfect, but doing our best under a multitude of complex influences. So, breathe, connect with your loved ones and create happy memories, with patience as your ally.
- Recognise Stress SOS: Sometimes stress sneaks up on us like a cold. Keep an eye out for its warning signs: increased irritability; difficulty concentrating; tiredness; changes in appetite or sleep patterns; loss of humour or spontaneity; or that overwhelming feeling. When you spot these red flags, take a moment to acknowledge them and calmly address the situation causing the stress.
- Practise Kindness: Embrace the Golden Rule – treating others as you’d like to be treated – to create a positive atmosphere and deep connections. Sprinkle small acts of kindness everywhere: lend a helping hand; be a listening ear; include people who are alone; or shower others with gratitude. Kindness is contagious! Your acts of compassion and generosity can inspire others to spread joy, creating a ripple effect of positivity. Light up your world with kindness!
- Exercise: Deck the halls with boughs of exercise! Regular physical activity is your secret weapon to stay fit and fend off stress during the festive season. It helps control your weight, strengthen your heart, and release endorphins that combat stress. So, play your favourite exercise music and get those endorphins jingling!
- Harness the Healing Power of Nature: Amidst the hustle and bustle, find solace in Mother Nature. Step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and let the magic happen. Whether you walk through the bush, sit by the sea, or have a picnic in the park, nature has a way of rejuvenating our souls and calming our minds. Make time to connect with the natural world and restore your inner balance. Step away from the material world and relax in nature’s embrace.
- Hydrate to Celebrate: Hydration – the unsung hero of well-being – regulates body temperature, supports digestion and keeps your skin glowing. Amidst the temptation of all those delightful holiday beverages, remember to prioritise water. Too much alcohol can lead to dehydration and other adverse health and social effects. So, sip on that H2O and limit the alcohol intake. Cheers to hydration!
Take a moment to consider what the festive season means to you. Is it really about buying a lot of stuff and meeting everyone’s expectations… or is it about resting, rejuvenating, creating memories, connecting with people, and finding joy in the little things? Whatever it means to you, unwrap peace and make this festive season one of joy, harmony and health.
About the Author:
Natalie is a Resilience Coach, Eco-Retreat Facilitator and Author of the Campfire for the Heart and Campfire for a Woman’s Heart, published by Big Sky Publishing. www.stockdalewellbeing.com
