Symbolically Christmas is a time for joy. For many it can bring a gut-wrenching tension as deep-seated emotions come to rear its ugly head. The quiet undercurrent of comparisons to loved ones, grieving the loss of a beloved and the onset of work burnout as the year winds down are just some of the reasons why it’s worth taking a mindful approach to the festive season.
Integrative Psychotherapist and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist Lorraine Collins encourages to use the holiday as a time to disconnect. “Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental depletion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. It often manifests as a deep sense of exhaustion, cynicism, and a feeling of ineffectiveness. Many people don’t realise they are burning out until they reach breaking point. Time off at Christmas can be a moment to honour and reset these emotions.”
Today’s fast-paced world, fuelled by work pressure, social media overload, and family expectations, makes it harder than ever to disconnect. Lorraine highlights that many people feel trapped in a cycle of overworking and overcommitting. “A sense of responsibility and control often keeps burnout going. Family obligations can create huge waves of guilt, while workplace stress leads to resentment and exhaustion. But it’s important not to demonise burnout – sometimes it’s a natural response to real-life pressures. The key is how we look after ourselves during those crunch periods.”
Amid the hecticness of Christmas, here are five mindful steps to help slow things down and bring you comfort in kind and nurturing manner.
Set boundaries
Don’t overextend yourself by saying yes to every invitation. Learn to say no when necessary to protect your time and energy.
Prioritise recovery
Schedule personalised breaks for activities that help you destress. A soak in the bath with essential oils or a duvet day in your favourite pyjamas can transform your mood and make you feel rejuvenated.
Reassess priorities
Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for. This simple practice can shift your focus from stress to appreciation and joy.
Regulate and relax
Take a few minutes each day for mindfulness meditation. Yoga, reiki and chakra healing can help balance energies and clear the mind.
Practice self-care
Maintaining a balanced diet and seven to nine hours of quality sleep during Christmas is not for the faint hearted. Drinking an alcohol-free wellness drink or minimising screentime before bed are small habits that can make a difference to well-being.
Above, from left to right: The Feme Collection Satin Sleeping Mask & Pillowcase Set, £13 // Aromatherapy Associates The Ultimate Self-Care Heroes, £100 // Spa Ceylon De-Stress Wellness Trio, £12.50
Above, from left to right: The Chakra Healing Card Deck, £8.99 // Muush 12-pack, £32 // Pour Moi Velour Contrast Trim Pyjama Set, £49
Featured image c/o Primark
