Give yourself a break!
How to feel rested over the Christmas break
As we are nearing the Christmas break, life can speed up. Our to-do lists grow longer, work events are added onto long days in the office, and the mental load can seem overwhelming, as we try to manage and check off tasks at work and at home in preparation for the Christmas holidays. We might be desperate for a rest, but when the holiday does arrive it can be challenging to wind down and allow ourselves to truly rest - no wonder if we are going from 100 to 0 in a matter of days. It can feel difficult to step away from work, or to allow ourselves to relax.
While the Christmas break is a particularly busy time for many of us, prioritising rest and recovery is something that many people struggle with in general. In today’s frantic world, slowing down to prioritise rest and recuperation can feel like an unnecessary luxury. And yet, rest and recovery are essential for our physical and mental wellbeing. By allowing our bodies regular periods of recovery, we can increase our performance due to improved concentration and memory levels. Rest promotes a healthier immune system and reduces symptoms of stress. Feeling rested is also hugely beneficial to our mood - we feel more able to deal with challenges and are less affected by anxious feelings. So with all these benefits, it is worth considering how to give our body and mind a break over the Christmas break.
Here are some ideas for inspiration:
Ditch the planner Try planning in less activities. Enjoy connecting with your interests and spontaneously coming up with ideas of what to do.
Slow down Not rushing around will signal to your body that you are safe and well. You should notice symptoms of stress reducing.
Build in relaxation Make time for calming activities that promote relaxation. It could be something like getting a massage, having a bubble bath, spending time in nature, or listening to your favourite music.
Re-energise Get an energy boost from fun activities like sports, dancing, playing games, or theme park visits.
Sharing is caring. Make time for meaningful conversations with your partner, friends or family members. If something is bothering you, talking about it often reduces the cognitive load. You might be able to take on board different perspectives, and hopefully will feel supported by the people you care about.
With these ideas on rest, here are three reflections for you:
💡 How are you planning on resting over the Christmas break?
💡 Which calming activities help recharge your batteries?
💡 Which energising activities help recharge your batteries?
In this blog series, we will be looking at topics relating to workplace wellbeing. For personalised support, please get in touch.
