How to have a stress-free Yule
“IT’S the most wonderful time of the year,” according to the song, but it’s also the most stressful! Our sister publication, No.1 Magazine, has compiled a few Christmas tips to help you cope at this notoriously frantic time of year.
Keep calm and make a list
DON’T stress about running out of time. Make a list of your priorities, splitting it into two columns. On one side write down your must-do tasks; on the other, list the more enjoyable things you would like to do.
Happy talk
WE often place too much pressure on ourselves to ensure our families have their “best-ever” Christmas. Remember, you’re only responsible for your own happiness, no one else’s. Just try to enjoy every moment.
Crowded house
HAVING guests staying in your home can be stressful. Don’t worry about them, though – all they really need is a seat at the dinner table and somewhere to sleep at night. Just focus on being a good host, being polite, making them feel welcome and keeping calm (which sometimes involves biting your tongue!). Other tips include: not drinking too much, walking away if things get heated and remembering that they will go home, eventually!
Be prepared
CHRISTMAS dinner is the most stressed-about meal of the year. Avoid turkey-related tension by taking a few shortcuts, preparing most vegetables the day before. Any do you really need a starter? Concentrate on the main event and you’ll avoid some grief.
Online option
MORE and more people are opting for the less stressful option of online shopping. Why not try it? Just imagine a shopping trip without any queues!
Cut the calories
ON average, we gain between 1lb and 10lbs over the two-week festive season as our calorie consumption increases and we struggle to find time to exercise. Even saving 100 calories a day could make a big difference. Try reducing the amount of alcohol you drink too, as hangovers encourage you to eat unhealthily.