How To Create A Calm Christmas

How To Create A Calm Christmas

December is the most still time of the year. In our environment that is. Woodland creatures hibernate, trees stand dormant, all plant life’s growth slows. Even the sunshine is barely visible. Yet our lives are moving at a very different pace, almost poler (see what I did there; pole?!) opposite to Mother Nature. It’s often seen as the most chaotic time of year full of busy social calendars and rampant consumerism. There is physical, mental and financial stress. Imagine the effect that has on our health?!
But it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s time to take control of the the way our festive season plays out so we can have a truly calm and joyful Christmas.

Daily Meditation
There is an old zen saying that goes:

“You should sit in meditation for twenty minutes everyday – unless you’re too busy; then you should sit for an hour.”

This basically means that the busier you are, the more your body and mind need meditation. You don’t have to wait until the New Year to make a new resolution to meditate. It also doesn’t even have to be a big deal. Just set your clock for 10mins and sit and focus on your breath or repeat a mantra. Do it first thing in the morning and you will be set for the day.

Create White Space
White Space in your diary or social calendar is an allotted time that is blank or empty. Essentially you carve out time to do nothing or to rest. Avoid booking yourself for every available time slot in your calendar. You don’t need to say yes to every single invitation! Make sure you have enough white space for downtime or unexpected joyful experiences that don’t necessarily have to be planned or scheduled.

Eat Lightly (and avoid sugar crashes)
Oh mince pies how I love thee. This time of year over indulgence comes into play. Dinner parties, desserts, celebrations, treats when visiting relatives, the list goes on. There is a huge social aspect to giving, receiving and sharing food which is truly lovely. While it’s important to enjoy the food traditions be mindful of your consumption. Don’t over burden your digestive system. Take your nightly 12 hr fast i.e. no food between 8pm to 8am or 7-7 etc. There is an excess of sugar consumption over Christmas which is quite toxic for our health leading to highs and lows. Irregular routines and sugar crashes make for unhealthy lifestyle practices. Avoid gluttony and limit your intake.

Massage
Unfortunately Massage is seen as a luxury when it is in fact medicinal. It improves circulation, calms the mind, is excellent for the skin and is an all round very nourishing act. Giving the gift of massage is a wonderful gesture. But you don’t need to attend a spa to reap the benefits. On a cold winter nights there is nothing nicer than a self massage with warm oil to get rid of tension in the body.

Yoga
Of course it wouldn’t be a complete list if I didn’t include yoga! Yoga during the festive season is an excellent way to connect to your body and breath while getting some much needed head-space. Give your body a chance to move, stretch and breathe on a regular basis. This will ensure you remain supple and balanced during what can be a stressful and emotional time of year for people.

Happy Christmas! x

PS Yoga For Your Future Self and 4 Ways To A Greener Yoga Practice