Beating the Christmas blues.

Hey readers, 

While twinkling lights, festive music, and the cheerful moods filling every space promise a magical holiday season...the reality often feels far from picture-perfect.

 

Financial strains, demanding social obligations, sadness over lost loved ones, and impossible-to-meet expectations contribute to what experts call the “Christmas blues."

Up to 1 in 12 people battle mild to more serious symptoms of anxiety, depression, and loneliness during the holidays.

 You are not alone or imagining things if your most wonderful time of the year is leaving you overwhelmed and down. 

Arm yourself with coping strategies, support, perspective shifts, and self-care habits to prevail over the Christmas blues this year.  

Where Do the Holiday Blues Stem From?  

Christmas cheer seems to fill every space from November through New Year’s Eve.

 The stark contrast between the ever-playing holiday music and the actual internal mood makes feelings of grief, frustration and disconnect more apparent during the season of joy.  

Additionally, no holiday inflates expectations and stresses tied to money, family, food and hosting more than Christmas.

 The pressure to create perfect memories despite not having the time, budget or relationships to fulfil idealised visions leaves many feeling inadequate. 

Finding Relief from Holiday Blues

If you feel crushed under the weight of Christmas letdowns or harbour bitterness over all that remains unfulfilled, purposefully incorporate these strategies:

• Set Realistic Expectations: Aim for connection over perfection so you feel less disappointed. 

• Reflect on Highlights vs Shortcomings: Recognise this season held beauty despite struggles. 

 

• Make Time for Self-Care: Don’t abandon healthy habits that bolster mental health. 

• Limit Social Media Use: Reduce comparisons to unrealistic portrayals flooding feeds. 

• Seek Out Community Support Groups: You are not alone in this struggle. 

• Practice Gratitude: Appreciate current blessings rather than fixate on deficits. 

• Prioritise Sleep, Diet and Exercise: Caring for your body stabilises emotions. 

• Embrace Your Feelings: Allow yourself to grieve, wrestle, and process without shame. 

Christmas won’t Always Feel This Blue. 

By permitting yourself to feel, strategically caring for your whole self, embracing support, and centring connection over commercialised visions of full holiday happiness, you can lessen 

the intensity of Christmas blues. 

Reframe your expectations while proactively caring for your emotional needs amid this chaotic season. 

Gift yourself grace, space to process honestly, and the comfort of community. 

You’ll make it through to the fresh start a new year provides!

Cheers for reading X 

My Sunday photo 24/12/2023

 

Seeing Santa and how grow up to my boys look 😍 

Nurturing Stability for Kids During the Christmas Season.

Hey readers, 

The holiday season brings joy, festivities, and a break from the usual routines, but maintaining a sense of stability is crucial for children.

 

Amidst the excitement of Christmas, it's beneficial to weave elements of routine into the holiday magic. 

Here's a guide on how to keep your kids in a routine during the Christmas period, striking a balance between festive fun and consistent structure.

 1. Establish a Flexible Schedule. 

While the holidays often mean a break from school, maintaining a loose schedule can provide a sense of predictability for children. 

Designate specific times for meals, bedtime, and activities. A flexible routine ensures that essential elements remain consistent without stifling the spontaneity of holiday adventures.

 2. Include Holiday Traditions in the Routine. 

Integrate festive traditions into your daily routine to infuse the season with excitement. 

Whether it's lighting the Advent candles, opening a daily calendar door, or sharing a holiday story before bedtime, these rituals become an anticipated part of the day, adding structure and joy.

 3. Prioritise Sleep. 

Amidst the holiday hustle, ensure that your kids get sufficient sleep. Consistent bedtime routines, such as reading a holiday story or listening to gentle music, can help signal that it's time to wind down. 

A well-rested child is more likely to enjoy and participate in festive activities with enthusiasm.

 4. Plan Special Activities. 

Incorporate planned activities into the daily routine to create a sense of anticipation. 

Whether it's crafting ornaments, baking cookies, or watching a favourite holiday movie together, these special moments become anchors within the holiday routine, fostering excitement and connection.

 5. Maintain Healthy Eating Habits. 

With tempting holiday treats abound, it's important to balance indulgence with nutritious meals. Continue regular meal times and encourage a variety of foods. 

You can also involve your children in the kitchen, making healthy 

holiday-themed snacks together.

 6. Designate Screen Time. 

Establish boundaries for screen time to ensure a healthy balance between holiday movies, games, and other activities. 

Create a screen time routine that aligns with your family values, promoting both festive entertainment and other forms of engagement.

7. Encourage Outdoor Play. 

Maintain the importance of physical activity by encouraging outdoor play, even if it's just a snowball fight or a winter nature walk.

 Fresh air and movement contribute to overall well-being and can help regulate energy levels.

 8. Communicate Expectations. 

Communicate any changes to the routine, explaining the exciting holiday activities while emphasising the importance of routine for stability. 

When children understand the expectations, they are more likely to adapt and participate willingly.

 9. Create a Visual Schedule. 

For younger children, consider creating a visual schedule that illustrates the day's activities. 

This tangible representation helps them understand the flow of the day, making transitions smoother.

 10. Practice Gratitude. 

Incorporate a moment of gratitude into the routine, encouraging children to reflect on the positive aspects of their day. 

This can be done during family dinners or as part of the bedtime routine, fostering a mindset of appreciation amidst the holiday festivities.

11. Flexibility is Key.

While routines are valuable, it's equally important to embrace flexibility. 

Unexpected events and spontaneous holiday magic are all part of the season. 

Allow room for adjustments in the routine, accommodating surprises and unplanned moments of joy.

12. Model Self-Care. 

Demonstrate the importance of self-care by incorporating moments of relaxation and rejuvenation into your routine. 

Whether it's sipping hot cocoa by the fire or enjoying a quiet moment with a good book, modelling self-care teaches children the value of balance.

In conclusion, maintaining a routine during the Christmas period is about finding a harmonious balance between festive excitement and the comforting stability of everyday life. 

By incorporating holiday traditions, prioritising essential elements of routine, and embracing flexibility, you can create a magical and nurturing environment for your children. 

Through thoughtful planning and communication, the holiday season becomes a time of joy, connection, and cherished routines that make the magic of Christmas even more special for the entire family.

Cheers for reading X 

Deck the Halls with Christmas Games

Hey readers, 

 

The holiday season is upon us, which means festive decorations, time with family, good food, and of course Christmas games! 

When the whole family is gathered around, spending quality time together playing games is a wonderful way to embrace the Christmas spirit. 

Whether you’re looking for classic tabletop games, active party games for larger groups, video games to play online with distant relatives and friends, or even seeking out new and unique Christmas games, there are so many great options out there to infuse some holiday magic into your celebrations this year.

1. Classic Christmas Board & Tabletop games. 

Some old favourites stand the test of time. Traditional board games like Monopoly and Scrabble release special Christmas editions annually, featuring festive themes and pieces. 

The rules stay the same, but with a seasonal twist to the graphics, game pieces, and box that makes these classics even more special this time of year. 

Other great classic games include gingerbread-making contests, where players compete to decorate the most elaborate gingerbread house, and games like Christmas Bingo, where you cross off festive clues from your card. 

Almost any classic game can get a holiday makeover.

2. Active Christmas Party Games for Groups.

For livelier multi-generational gatherings, active Christmas party games tend to be the most popular with groups.

 These games encourage participation from kids, parents, grandparents everyone! 

Classic examples include hanging ornaments on guests with crazy hooks as they stand still as “Christmas trees”, racing to wrap up teammates as presents, and silly relay races involving sticking bows on heads or popping balloons.

 Silly costuming and tasks involve all ages while keeping everyone laughing. 

Other popular Christmas group games are more like holiday variations on musical chairs, charades, Pictionary, and trivia contests revolving around how well guests remember Christmas carol lyrics or movie quotes.

3. Online Christmas Games. 

For family or friends gathering virtually across distances this season, online games allow you to embrace the feeling of togetherness while still being physically apart. 

Classic games like trivia contests, Christmas movie quote quizzes, and other typical family game night activities translate seamlessly to online forums and video chats.

 Other digital twists lend themselves exclusively to remote gameplay - like collaborative online whiteboard games allowing participants to decorate virtual gingerbread houses or Christmas trees simultaneously. 

Gamified video chat helpers facilitate more immersive family connections with prompts for sharing favourite holiday memories while classic Christmas tunes play softly in the background across various rooms and cities.

4. Seeking Out New Christmas Games. 

While old favourites certainly have their place in time-honoured holiday gatherings, if your family is itching for something new this Christmas, plenty of fresh game ideas exist to shake things up. 

Over the past decade, escaping rooms and challenging sensory obstacles have risen in popularity, and now many major cities feature Christmas escape rooms just for the holiday season featuring themed obstacles to overcome as a team. 

For families staycationing in snowy destinations, building massive Christmas forts outside then waging snowball wars or sled relay races against each other introduces frosty fun. 

Tech-savvy relatives might also innovate new Christmas VR games or augment reality scavenger hunts for masked stocking stuffer prizes around the house. 

The options for new traditions and creative games are endless!

5. Minimize Holiday Stress with Christmas Games. 

While the holidays aim to provide quality family time, they inevitably bring some stresses with them as well - messy travel plans, hosting house guests, crowded shopping trips, mountains of gifts to wrap, looming deadlines for cards and cookies and decorations galore. 

But infusing games into your celebrations this season can work wonders to minimize anxiety and maximise festive joy. 

Laughtly reduces stress hormones, while enjoying friendly competition and togetherness produces feel-good endorphins. Playing Christmas games inserts levity into preparations and gatherings alike. 

With classics or new inventions, games encourage playfulness across generations while making moments together more memorable.

 This year, be intentional about interspersing Christmas games and activities amid the holiday hustle and hassle to minimize tensions and frustrate holiday meltdowns. ‘

Tis the season for peace, joy, and combining festivities with friendly family competition!

Cheers for reading X 

My Sunday photo 17/12/2023

 

 

Festive films for older children.

 Hey readers, 

The holiday season is a magical time for families to come together, and watching festive films is one of the best ways to get into the spirit. 

While there are plenty of great holiday movies aimed at young kids, finding films that appeal to tweens and teens can be more challenging.

 However, there are several classic and contemporary festive films perfect for older children that celebrate the season

through warmth, humour, and positive themes.

1. A Christmas story. 

A Christmas classic that continues to delight both older kids and adults is the 1983 film A Christmas Story.

 Following the misadventures of young Ralphie in 1940s Indiana as he schemes to get his dream Christmas gift of a Red Ryder BB gun, this comic film captures the childhood excitement of Christmas mixed with hilarious mishaps. 

From getting his tongue stuck to a frozen flagpole to dealing with the neighbourhood bullies, older children will relate to Ralphie’s adventures and find the exaggerated humour thoroughly entertaining.

 The film also reminds viewers old and young to focus on family and finding joy in simple gifts rather than commercialism during the holidays.  

2. The nightmare before Christmas.

For children who prefer fantasy films, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas from 1993 makes for ideal festive viewing.

 This clever stop-motion musical tells the story of Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town who accidentally stumbles into Christmas Town and tries to bring his ghoulish flair to Christmas celebrations with chaotic results. 

Older kids will appreciate the creativity of the film’s world and characters, the catchy musical numbers, and the ultimately warm-hearted message about finding the right balance between two different holidays.

 It also provides some lighter scares for children who enjoy thrills and chills.

3. Arthur Christmas. 

A more recent animated film is the 2015 comedy adventure Arthur Christmas. 

This humorous take on how Santa Claus delivers presents across the world in one night focuses on Santa’s younger son Arthur as he strives to complete an urgent Christmas mission. 

Older kids will laugh at Arthur’s antics, enjoy the high-tech Santa’s S-1 sleigh, and appreciate the themes of family togetherness and believing in each other. 

Fast-paced with gorgeous animation and plenty of heart, Arthur Christmas captures the excitement leading up to the holidays.

4. Miracle on 34th Street. 

For older kids who enjoy emotionally resonant stories, the 1994 remake of Miracle on 34th Street beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas. 

It focuses on a department store Santa who claims to be the real Santa Claus, befriending a young, skeptical girl.

 The intelligent dialogue, memorable characters, and charming romance make it thoroughly engaging for tweens and teens. 

It highlights the wonder of believing in Santa while teaching valuable lessons about faith and cynicism.

 

5. Jingle Jangle.

Finally, for musical fans, the 2020 Netflix film Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey makes for a joyous seasonal viewing experience for the whole family.

 A musical fantasy in the style of a Broadway show, it follows legendary toymaker Jeronicus Jangle, his resourceful granddaughter, and a magical invention just before Christmas in the lively town of Cobbleton. 

The film celebrates imagination, perseverance, family bonds, and reconciliation through catchy songs and splendid visuals. With its messages of hope and vibrant sense of fun, Jingle Jangle is a new festive favourite.

The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity for families to cosy up with hot cocoa and watch uplifting seasonal films together. 

For older children, movies like A Christmas Story, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Arthur Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, and Jingle Jangle tell stories that will make them laugh, dream, and reflect on what matters most during the holidays - hope, family, and love.

 Cheers for reading X

Coping with holiday sluggishness.

Hey readers, 

As the holiday season unfurls its magic, adorned with twinkling lights and the promise of joy, it's not uncommon to find oneself caught in the paradox of feeling sluggish amidst the festive cheer.

 The whirlwind of preparations, coupled with the winter chill, can often cast a lethargic spell over the most spirited revellers. 

If you're finding it challenging to shake off the sluggishness and fully embrace the merriment, fear not—here are some strategies to reignite your festive spark.

1. Embrace the Power of Restful Moments. 

   The hustle and bustle of the season can leave us drained, both mentally and physically. 

Amidst the chaotic preparations, make room for intentional restful moments.

 Whether it's curling up with a blanket and a good book or taking a stroll through a winter wonderland, these pauses can rejuvenate your spirit and help combat sluggishness.

2. Prioritise Sleep.

 

   The holiday season often disrupts our regular sleep patterns. 

Late-night wrapping sessions, social gatherings, and the excitement of the season can lead to insufficient rest. 

Make a conscious effort to prioritize sleep, ensuring you get the recommended hours each night. Quality sleep is a potent antidote to sluggishness, revitalizing both body and mind.

3. Stay Hydrated. 

   With the winter chill, it's easy to forget to stay adequately hydrated. Dehydration can contribute to feelings of lethargy.

 Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.

 Consider infusing your water with seasonal fruits for a festive twist, making hydration both refreshing and enjoyable.

4. Mindful Nutrition. 

   While indulging in festive treats is a hallmark of the season, it's crucial to maintain a balanced diet. 

Ensure your meals include a mix of nourishing foods, providing sustained energy. 

Incorporate seasonal fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals to fuel your body and combat the sluggishness that may arise from consuming too many sugary treats.

5. Incorporate Energising Activities. 

   Combat the sluggish feeling by incorporating activities that get your blood flowing and invigorate your senses.

 Whether it's a brisk walk, a short workout, or even a dance session to your favourite holiday tunes, these activities can elevate your energy levels and infuse a sense of vitality into your day.

6. Create a Cosy Sanctuary. 

   The winter blues can amplify feelings of sluggishness. Combat this by creating a cosy sanctuary in your home.

 Soft blankets, warm lighting, and a soothing ambience can make your space a haven of comfort, providing a retreat when you need a break from the bustling holiday preparations.

7. Practice Mindfulness. 

   The holiday season often comes with a flurry of activities that can overwhelm the mind. 

Incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises. 

These techniques can help reduce stress, increase mental clarity, and alleviate feelings of sluggishness.

8. Set Realistic Expectations. 

   The pressure to create a perfect holiday experience can contribute to feelings of fatigue.

 Set realistic expectations for yourself and acknowledge that it's okay not to do everything. 

Prioritise activities that bring you genuine joy, and don't be afraid to delegate tasks or seek support when needed.

9. Connect with Loved Ones. 

   The festive season is about shared moments and connection. Reach out to loved ones, whether through in-person gatherings or virtual celebrations.

 The warmth of connection can uplift your spirits and provide a welcome break from any sluggish feelings.

10. Reflect and Reset. 

   Take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday season.

 Amidst the flurry of activities, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters.

 Whether through journaling, meditation, or quiet contemplation, use this time to reset your intentions and rekindle the festive spark within.

In the tapestry of holiday celebrations, it's normal to encounter moments of sluggishness. 

However, by incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can navigate through the lethargy and rediscover the joy that defines the Christmas season.

 Embrace the opportunity to slow down, recharge, and savour the magic of the holidays with a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm.

Cheers for reading x