De-stressing Christmas

“I’d rather have good company and bad food, instead of good food and bad company” Annabelle White, Celebrity Cook and Comedian
So much thought goes into the food we serve and share with loved ones at Christmas, but it’s also really important to focus on a positive frame of mind as we hit the silly season…so you can be good company!

We have some tips for you to help with balance and sanity…
1. Perspective- take a step back from the rush of it all and ask yourself “For my family and I, what is it that really counts at Christmas time? What will we remember in the future?”

2. Have realistic expectations and don’t over commit – be kind to yourself and think about what is achievable to get done and say no to some things e.g. extra work over holiday period, out of control present giving. That way you can actually relax and enjoy the holiday period rather than feel exhausted and flat. Remember point 1!
3. Planning – food, presents, holiday requirements. Break down each part of the festive season, write lists and work out what each requires rather than leaving it to chance while at the shops or away – it is far less stressful if know what you are going to get/do.
4. Budgeting- prevent over extending yourself and set a limit on what you want to spend overall on Christmas, then split it into expense areas e.g. food, presents. Come up with suggestions to family that work budget-wise and time-wise eg lucky hat draws rather than buying for everyone, set limits on the amount to spend, cheap & cheerful secret santa, green dollar presents.
5. Factor in some fun and memorable new family traditions e.g. taking a picnic dinner and cruising the neighbourhood Christmas lights. Back to point 1- these experiences where we are connecting to others and soaking up the moment usually beat a clean house and a fancy 5 course meal!

Tea Retreats wish you and yours a very happy and relaxing Christmas and holiday season.

Tea Retreats

Each month, Tea Retreats will be bringing you an article on Health and Wellbeing to help you make 2016 your healthiest year yet. Tea Retreats combines the skills and experience of Sarah Percy, Registered Dietitian and Sarah Donaldson, Clinical Psychologist to provide a comprehensive approach to health and wellbeing. The “Tea” in Tea Retreats stands for Think, Eat, Act – we believe a positive mindset, good nutrition and keeping active are 3 crucial areas in our life which are essential for good health. If you need some help getting your health sorted please get in touch, we’d love to help. www.tea-retreats.co.nz