Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but between the shopping, socialising, travelling and endless to-do lists, it can sometimes leave us feeling more exhausted than festive.
So, as the celebrations get underway, here is your festive playlist with a few seasonal reminders to help keep your body and mind in tune.
All I Want for Christmas Is… Eight Hours’ Sleep
Late nights, Christmas parties, excited children and disrupted routines can all disrupt our usual sleep routines. While the occasional late night is part of the fun, try to give yourself plenty of opportunities to catch up on rest.
Keep roughly consistent bed and wake times where possible, limit screen time before bed and avoid relying on alcohol to help you sleep. If you have a busy day ahead, build in some quiet time rather than trying to squeeze another activity into the diary.
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
Christmas can involve a lot of sitting — travelling, watching films, playing games and enjoying long meals. A little movement can make you feel better physically and mentally.
Getting outside for some fresh air and gentle exercise can help boost your mood, improve circulation and shake off that post-dinner sluggishness. Whether it’s a family stroll, a walk with the dog or five minutes of peace and quiet on your own, there’s plenty to be said for stepping away from the festivities for a little while.
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Burnout
Christmas is often portrayed as magical and effortless, but the reality can involve a lot of planning, spending, cooking and social commitments. If your festive to-do list is starting to feel overwhelming, remember that you don’t have to do everything or try to keep with other people’s ‘perfect’ Christmases.
Make a realistic list, share jobs with others and protect some time for yourself. It’s perfectly healthy to say no to an invitation or take a quiet afternoon when you need one.
Last Christmas, I Gave You My… Germs
Christmas is a time for sharing — but coughs, colds and festive bugs are probably best kept to yourself. With plenty of family gatherings, parties and visits to see loved ones, winter illnesses can spread quickly at this time of year.
Simple steps such as washing your hands regularly, catching coughs and sneezes and avoiding close contact with others if you’re unwell can all help.
Take particular care around older people, babies and anyone who may be more vulnerable to infections. Sometimes staying home to recover is the most thoughtful Christmas present you can give.
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree (Without Pulling a Muscle)
Christmas can be surprisingly physical. From hauling decorations down from the loft to carrying heavy shopping bags and spending hours in the kitchen, it’s easy to overdo things.
Lift carefully, bend your knees rather than your back and ask for help with heavy or awkward items. If you’re decorating, avoid standing on chairs or other unstable furniture; use a proper step ladder and take your time. A festive injury is one Christmas surprise nobody wants.
Baby, It’s Cold Outside
Winter weather can be tough on the body, particularly for older people and those with existing health concerns. It’s also easy to spend less time outdoors when temperatures drop, which can mean less activity and fresh air.
Wrap up warmly when heading outdoors, wear suitable footwear in icy conditions, and keep your home comfortably heated. And don’t forget to check in on older friends, neighbours and relatives who may need a little extra support during a cold spell. A simple phone call or visit can make all the difference during the colder months.
The best festive health advice of all? Enjoy yourself, take the pressure off and remember that looking after your wellbeing doesn’t have to stop just because it’s Christmas.
