GET CRAFTING WITH KIDS TO FEEL MORE CHEERFUL
As Christmas approaches, trying to keep children entertained with most venues closed may be difficult. Emma says getting creative can lift everyone’s moods and increase our sense of positivity
With family celebrations currently in doubt, getting in the festive mood may be a stretch, but I can guarantee that when you exercise a level of control over your world, you genuinely feel less anxious. Crafting will distract you and your kids from the present stressful climate and instead help you focus on something fun and goal-orientated.
ENJOY THE ‘FLOW’
Crafting and baking are considered informal mindful practices, which is a fancy way of saying that the activity connects you to the present moment. Think about how much time you have spent worrying about the future recently – about the health of your family, the future regarding your career, and your kids’ education. This can make you feel overwhelmed, but when we do something that brings us back to the here and now, it automatically reduces stress and anxiety, and can bring about a state of mental “flow”, where you get lost in an activity, which is soothing and reassuring. It’s one of the simplest ways to get in a positive mental state .
USE YOUR HANDS
You also won’t have any digital connection while you’re crafting or baking, because you’ll be using your hands, which takes you away from anxiety-inducing news. Take a look at Happycraftbox.com where your kids can receive a monthly craft subscription, with everything they need provided. If you are struggling financially, plan thoughtful homemade Christmas gifts. A couple of years ago, my family did this, and a scrapbook of my boys’ lives and a book of poems my hubby collected from friends and family remain my most treasured possessions.
FEEL THAT PRIDE
You may not be able to visit Santa’s grotto, so instead pick a room and make it as Christmassy as possible. This will lighten up the dreariest of days. Doing something so you can be in the present moment is great for you, plus you get something at the end of it, which is even better, because as well as soothing stress and anxiety, it gives you a sense of pride and achievement.
● Turn to p65 for some affordable festive crafting ideas