Top tips for surviving the holiday Hoo-Har!

Yep, you heard me, I did just call it "holiday hoo-har!". Because that is what it is. 

For most of us it's a very artificial, obligation-filled, stressful and expensive time. 

I know that a lot of you are contemplating how to navigate the holidays right now. 

You are asking these questions: What does everyone want as a gift? Where will we go on the day? Who will be there that we like? Or more importantly, who will be there that we don’t like? How much food do we need to cook? Will I get any time to relax?

There are so many rules and expectations and let’s be honest … it’s not always fun.

Of course, you don’t have to join the circus, but it can be tough to stay centred.

Firstly, I'd like to give you permission to STOP THE MADNESS! and give yourself a break. 

And secondly, if that's not possible, I would like to share my top tips to have a graceful Christmas this year.

1. Set an intention for the holidays and make your plans in line with that …as you know, I like to set a theme for each year – this year was #security. And all year I have been doing things to improve my feelings of safety. Not just physically - like accepting a full-time job and moving into a more affordable home, but also emotionally - like continuing my cold-water dipping with my community every day; and mentally - starting to write a new book (stay tuned); and spiritually - going on a sacred trip to swim with Humpback whales. You could do the same for Christmas … perhaps it could be a theme of #peaceful, or #playful, or just … #easy. How could you make this year’s holiday celebrations easy and fun for you (and your family)? Every time you go to make a decision, think about this intention. Rather than you cooking a massive lunch for your family – why not ask everyone to bring a plate to contribute. Rather than buying lots of things / items / stuff – why not encourage people to give experiences or events or time doing a favourite activity. Rather than sitting around drinking – why not create a fun game of mini-challenges (sports, word games or quiz questions) that everyone can participate in, for a yearly “Xmas trophy”. 

2. Embrace the simple things …There is A LOT to be said for simplifying your life, in all aspects. We humans like to make this complicated. Overthinking. Overanalyzing. Over-giving. Over-spending. What if, this year, you pare it all back. Why not go out for lunch or dinner on Christmas, so there is no pressure on anyone to host. Why not do a “Secret Santa” for the gifts, so there is a surprise element and make the gift funny or silly. Why not go away for Christmas to a special location, so you can relax on your own or with your close family. There is so much power in this. You are allowed to choose the simple option.

3. Remember to nourish yourself, too …I spend a lot of time in my business reminding people to nurture and nourish themselves. Give yourself the gift of TIME this year. I mean, before and during the Christmas holidays, book massages, go to yoga sessions, eat good food, talk to a counsellor / coach, walk on the beach, swim in the ocean, dance, sing, play, laugh with friends, have time alone, read, garden, go to a sound healing, do meditation, connect with your divine guides and angels, choose not to engage in drama, breathe and … FOR GOODNESS SAKE … take care of yourself first, so that you can handle all the crazy energy of this season. You have my permission to schedule this essential self-care for yourself. You know that the grumpy, stressed, exhausted, and pissed-off version of you will be so grateful, and that you’ll be a much kinder, calmer, and light-hearted person for your family if you do. They will be SO thankful for this!

So, those are my top tips to survive the Christmas hoo-har. If you need support, I am here to offer you an ear to listen, skills and tools to coach, Reiki energy healing for your emotions, Bowen therapy for your aching body, meditations for your monkey mind and a quiet space to relax away from your life.

P.s. If you’d like to hear my new book or product announcements first and receive a bonus FREE MenoRecipe guidebook for you (or your female loved ones experiencing perimenopause or menopause) … you can join my mailing list through the form at the bottom of the page.