As the year winds down, the weeks leading up to Christmas often become a whirlwind of festive events, looming work deadlines, and holiday preparations. It’s no wonder many of us feel more stressed than spirited.

To help you navigate this hectic period, psychotherapist Elizabeth Alvanos shares practical tips to help you replenish your energy and remain resilient.

1. Buy Time: Make Life Easier During Busy Weeks

When life gets hectic, finding ways to free up time can make all the difference. Here’s how you can give yourself the gift of extra moments:

• Prioritise Simplicity: If a task isn’t essential, let it go. Focus on what truly matters.

• Plan Meals Ahead of Time: A little meal prep can save you stress during the week.

• Treat Yourself to Support: Consider hiring a cleaner or other services temporarily to take one big thing off your plate.

• Share Tasks with Your Support Network: If you can, coordinate with friends or family to split chores, like school pickups or grocery runs.

2. Aim for Balance: Soothe Your Body and Mind

Our bodies need clear signals to unwind after stressful days. Use these techniques to tell your body it’s time to relax:

• Enjoy a Nourishing Meal: Cook something warm and eat it early to engage your “rest and digest” response.

• Practice Low, Slow Breathing: Place your hand on your heart and tummy, then take deep, calming breaths. Aim to make your belly button move out on your slow inhale, and in on your slow exhale.

• Take a Quick Shower: A hot shower stimulate your body clock and make it easier to fall asleep. A cold shower calms your body by stimulating your vagus nerve in a powerful way.

• Connect with Loved Ones & Find Laughs: Laughter and hugs have powerful soothing effects on your nervous system. Ask someone for a hug, or watch a clip from your favourite comedian.

• Move Your Body: A short walk or gentle stretches can help release physical tension.

3. Practice Boundaries: Protect Your Energy

Setting boundaries is essential to avoid burnout, but finding the right balance is key. Assess whether our boundaries are too rigid or too loose.

• Notice Emotional Limits: If you’re saying “yes” too often, you might feel drained and resentful. Learn to say “no” when needed.

• Delay Non-Urgent Plans: If you’re overwhelmed, reschedule activities or commitments for the new year when you’ll feel more present.

• Embrace Self-Compassion: Remind yourself that it’s okay to slow down. Your loved ones will understand.

• Ask for Help When Deadlines Are Unreasonable: Rigid boundaries can isolate you—remember that asking for support strengthens connections.

Practical Examples to Stay Grounded

• If you’re feeling overcommitted, practice saying, “I’d love to, but can we plan for January instead?”

• When overwhelmed by to-dos, focus on just one task that aligns with your priorities.

• At the end of a long day, breathe deeply, enjoy a warm meal, and remind yourself, “I am enough.”

Conclusion: Embrace Resilience with Small Changes

The holiday season doesn’t have to drain your energy or overwhelm your mind. By planning ahead, prioritising balance, using grounding tools, and setting healthy boundaries, you can stay calm and enjoy this festive time. Remember, it’s okay to slow down and focus on what truly matters—your well-being and the connections you cherish.

So, take a breath, reflect, and ask yourself: how can you make this holiday season one of joy and balance?