Keep calm, it’s the festive season

‘Tis nearly the season for festive parties, work dos, social catchups, and all of the summer fun.

As we get ready to wrap up 2021 and take a well-deserved rest, it is fair to say this time of year can feel a little overwhelming.

With social commitments popping up left, right, and center, our festive calendars quickly start to fill up. Pair that with work parties, family time, no routine, and a few too many cocktail nights, it can start to feel like the opposite of a relaxing holiday break.

It is so important we take this time to recharge and refresh after a big and especially challenging year for many. But of course, you want to have fun and enjoy all of the events and get-togethers. So how do we find the right balance?

Having some kind of routine is a great place to start, even if it looks different from your usual routine throughout the year. Here are a few tips that might help.

Keep moving

Doing the things that makes you feel good is so important when trying to find balance during the festive season. Feeling energized and healthy is key to not only physical health but good mental health as well. If you work out regularly, try to still make the time to fit this in where you can over the coming weeks. It might mean switching up your class times to suit your plans or opting for a run or walk with a friend, but if getting a sweat up is something you rely on for feeling good, then definitely make this a priority. It’s a great way to still get some alone time during the social season, or if you prefer the company, invite a friend to a workout and grab a coffee after. Win-win!

Sometimes, say no

If it starts to feel like every day of your holiday break is full of catchups and plans with different friends and family, then know it is okay to say no and take some time to just lay low and relax. Yes, it is great to spend time with loved ones, but not to the point where you are stretched too thin. Remember, you won't be giving your best self in this situation either if you aren’t fully present. A good tip is to get a large group together in one go and plan something fun, like a pot luck dinner or bbq and catch up all together. Another tip, don’t make too many plans in advance. That way if you have a free day, and feel like making plans, you can do so in the moment when you know you will be present and really enjoy yourself.

Self-care

Coming straight out of the working year is a big relief for many. The busy work weeks fly by so fast, and most of us are all go go go throughout the year. Going into your holiday time, it is nice to mark this transition with something just for you, to treat yourself and take some time to fully tune off from work so you can enjoy your holiday without still thinking about the office. Book yourself a massage, a float, or a facial for some serious self-care. Maybe try a few yoga or meditation classes during the holiday season. Try and think of something you wouldn’t find the time for during the year but have been wanting to, and book it in. You deserve it!

Switch off

Our devices rarely leave our sides these days, and especially with work now, most people are somewhat glued to a screen in some form during most of the year. The constant noise from social media can be intense, and taking a break from this is hugely beneficial. While they are still the most useful tool for easy communication, try putting down your devices more than usual during your break, or logging out of your social media apps for a few days here and there. This will help keep you present when connecting with loved ones and when enjoying the beautiful weather and places you will be exploring. You might just find yourself picking up a book more than usual!