Christmas is an incredibly busy and sometimes stressful time for parents so when you finally get a few hours to relax, whether that be miraculously during the lead up or just after Christmas, make sure you use it.
Self-care
- Take a long bath – an oldie but a goodie. Turn your average bath into a relaxation paradise by adding tons of products, music & candles.
- Do your nails – sounds ridiculous but painting your nails or any other kind of beauty activity gives our confidence a boost.
- Meditate – I’ve mentioned before how helpful meditation can be, I use the Headspace app.
Couple time
- Visit the cinema – why not take advantage of the dead zone between Christmas and New Year; rope in a sitter and catch a holiday flick with your other half.
- A classic box set – no sitter? Then why not snuggle down with a classic box set – perhaps something you always used to love watching together back in the day.
- Cook together – preparing a meal together, whilst supping a nice glass of wine of course, is a great way to relax together without the distractions of TV or other devices. Or forget cooking altogether and trade in the stove for a big platter of shop bought cheese, deli meat and breads.
Socialising
- See your girlfriends – Christmas is all about family and kids so why not buck the trend and put a night aside to go for a drink with your friends sans kiddos, where you can vent your Christmas stress away.
- Have a games night – I love playing games, and it’s what Christmas is all about in my opinion. De-stress by dusting off the Monopoly or get hysterical with newer, more controversial games like Cards Against Humanity (not for the light-hearted or easily offended!).
- Holiday catch up – now Caterpillar is in school he has a lot less time to play with his non-school friends. Use the holidays to get together which has the added bonus of the kids being entertained by each other, thus reducing the pressure on you!
Hobbies
- Gym – we’re all guilty of feeling sluggish and groggy after the excesses of Christmas so force yourself to do some exercise if that’s your thing (can you tell it’s not mine?)
- Get Crafty – indulging in creative hobbies feeds the soul so try to find time to do this during the Christmas break.
- Music – not much hobby time available? A simple shake around the kitchen to your favourite tunes will help raise your mood and relax your mind
Wine
Wine