By Clare Care
Five tips for having a positive and peaceful holiday break.
The holidays make way for rest, relaxation and precious time with loved ones. But Christmastime can be a very emotional period for some. The festive season can be filled with stress to ensure that everyone’s needs are met. This might be anything from financial concerns to dividing up time visiting family members and friends. As the party season prevails, there can be an expectation to be gregarious and sociable.
If loved ones have passed, Christmas and the New Year can be desperately sorrowful.
As we bid farewell to another year, it can also make us consider the things we haven’t yet accomplished in our lives. Or the areas that we are not happy with.
If you can relate to any, or all of these things, then here are my top five tips for having a positive and peaceful holiday break.
- Decline
If you feel pulled in all directions, perhaps the office party or an expectation for excess visitations, but you don’t really want to partake, then don’t. It is hard being a people pleaser and always doing things for others. And while kindness and good deeds are to be encouraged and embraced for well-being, if it is at detriment to your health, then politely decline. Try not to feel pressured into going out if you would rather not. A simple, assertive “no” at the outset is better than leaving others hanging on for a decision. People will have greater respect for your choice from the start, than if you say yes to an invitation only to later be a “no-show.” Behavior of this kind can lead to resentment and upset. Pulling out at the last minute can result in bad feelings all round. Always beware of time thieves! They can have a negative impact on your well-being. Earth minutes are yours. And they are not infinite; choose how to use them wisely.
- Limit
Christmastime usually comes with a hefty bill as we buy gifts, indulgent food and treats. As living costs rise but wages do not, an effective way to manage your finances is to tell all family and friends, whom you would normally purchase a present for, that you will limit the amount spent.
Remember a modest gift can be just as thoughtful and well-received as something expensive. Have a go at crafting or creating your own presents or cards. Perhaps you could make a candle, knit a scarf, or bake a pie? A homemade gift can be very special. Make a list of all the people you would normally buy a gift for and set an amount for each person. Check that fits with your budget and absolutely do not go over it.
- Rest
Rest is important as it gives you a change to recharge your batteries. Factor in holiday time where you simply do nothing. The dishes can wait. The house work can wait. Let your body just be. A duvet day is acceptable. Or a TV catch up on the sofa. Lose yourself in a good book. Or meditate. Listen to music. Sleep. Give yourself a day of dreams. Rushing is of no consequence.
- Reflect
The festive season can be a time for reflection and sadness if a loved one has been lost. Grief never dies. It will hit you at unexpected moments, in powerful waves or tiny bursts. Ease the pain by setting aside an evening devoted to remembrance. This can be in solitude or to share with others. Look at photos, recall memories, listen to a favorite song. Light a candle, say a prayer and remember with a smile. Call upon your angels for spiritual guidance to give you signs and strength. It is always OK to cry—no matter your age, gender or culture. It is a healthy normal reaction to protect your mind and body. Crying will help release suffering and pain.
- Renew
The New Year is a time for new beginnings. As we welcome in a fresh new year, we can say goodbye to the past and hello to manifesting our dream life. If you have felt stuck in a rut, or are unhappy with any aspect of your life, this is a time to consider areas that do not serve you. If you don’t follow your dreams and aspirations, you are not being your authentic self. Know that you are capable of receiving the things your heart truly desires. Make a list of what you really would like to achieve and plan considered steps to get there. Divide your wish list into short-term and long-term goals. Any path can be taken if you trust yourself and quash limiting beliefs.
Clare Care is a presenter, author and singer. She is also a Creative and Spiritual Life Coach and a member of The Complimentary Medical Association (MCMA). Clare loves to help others live their best life! Her book, 52 Ways To Receive Joy Now! is an essential guide to finding your inner happiness and is available on Amazon. Her podcast, “Nourish Your Think Tank” has interviews with music legends and musings on life’s good vibrations. She hosts an early breakfast show on NLive Radio called “Clare’s Happy Monday” to make people feel good for their week ahead. Her other show, “Weekend Calling”, gets listeners ready for the weekend. Clare fronts a function band as the lead singer and regularly performs at parties and corporate events. For more information go to https://www.clarecarepresenter.com.