How does it happen that an occasion which is supposed to be joyous, can seem to create so much stress?! Well a large part can be attributed to the 3 F's - family, finances & food. Usually all lovely things when received or spent in the appropriate amounts. However, lump them altogether in over/underwhelming amounts in a very short space of time and you have a sure recipe for AHHHHHHHHHHH!
Now I know what you're all thinking - and yes a glass of wine can definitely help the situation. But just incase you're a lightweight like me and can only handle a couple of glasses before your head starts spinning here are some other Christmas helpers to get you through the chaos:
1. Easy Breathe
This is the quickest, simplest way I know to calm yourself down. It can be done anytime, anywhere even when you're around other people.
Breathe in through your nose and out through your nose or mouth. As you breathe in say silently to yourself "Breathe in" and as you breathe out say silently to yourself "Breathe out". Repeat for as long as you like and as many times as you like during the day. It's that simple!
2. Ezi-calm
I love this technique and it does exactly what it says on the tin! It helps calm your nervous system and pull you out of the fight/flight response so you can once again think clearly and respond appropriately when 5 extra people turn up to Christmas lunch!
Position 1 or 1a: Sit or lie down with your ankles crossed, your wrists crossed and your fingers interlaced (lock yourself in the bathroom if need be!). Hold the position and do "easy breathe" for about 5 deep breaths or 30 seconds.
Position 2: Uncross your feet & place them flat on the floor, uncross your wrists and bring fingertips together. Hold the position and do "easy breathe" for about 5 deep breaths or 30 seconds.
3. If all else fails, adopt the posture below:
Enjoy turning the 3 F's into one big FABULOUS Christmas!
