Not Enthused about Christmas? Five Things To Enjoy This Festive Season Regardless
Most of us could do without all the stress that comes along with Christmas, but enjoy the big day when it comes around. But what if Christmas really isn’t cutting it this year? It can be hard to get away from the relentless carols, Christmas adverts and all the shopping chaos! Perhaps circumstances mean you can’t be with family or friends either. Here are a few tips and things to enjoy if you hate Christmas or just can’t face it this year!
Make a no presents & cards rule
Avoid unwanted presents and the guilt that comes when you don’t have one to give back by speaking to friends and family in advance about a no-presents rule. Instead of coming across as a real Grinch, explain that you are simply choosing to skip the festivities but make a new year date for a meal out together, when you can spend some quality time instead. Spa days or cinema trips work well too – anything that means you can get a good catch up instead of simply buying more stuff for each other! The same goes for Christmas cards, ditch the Season’s Greetings and take time over the festive break to write out notes or emails to those you’d like to reach out to – much more personal and meaningful than your standard Merry Christmas.
Have an alternative Christmas dinner
So, turkey and the trimmings is too much for you this year, either cook up something completely unfestive at home or head out for a meal instead. Asian restaurants may well be open, offering a delicious alternative that isn’t Christmassy at all and yet is still a treat. If the overindulgence of Christmas turns you off, get ahead of the game during the holidays and start New Year healthy eating plans early. Take the opportunity of being off at home to start making healthy soups, stews and stir-frys, batch cooking to help fill the freezer for the New Year.
Go to the cinema
Avoid the Christmas telly and treat yourself to a trip to see one of the many blockbusters that are out at this time of year. This year there’s the new Star Wars, Murder on the Orient Express, Daddy’s Home 2, The Greatest Showman and the new Jumanji – top entertainment without a Santa Claus in sight!
Volunteer
Spend some of your time off by looking into local volunteering opportunities. It could be the local charity shop that needs a few extra pairs of hands to cover holiday hours, or befriending schemes that pair you up with elderly people in your area in need of company over the festive period. Help bring Christmas to others by dishing out Christmas dinner in a homeless shelter or help local food banks by donating a box of goods or volunteering time to help distribute to those who need. Volunteer Scotland have opportunities listed on their site, including over the holidays. You may find something worthwhile you want to commit time to in the New Year too.
Indulge in me time
Don’t forget to take time for yourself either. The winter can be harsh and leave us feeling weather-beaten and a bit down at times. Take the extra time off to indulge in a bit of restorative time for yourself – whether it’s things like yoga or meditation, going on a long walk in nature on a crisp winter’s afternoon or taking a hot soak in the bath before curling up with a great book. It’s ok to take it slow over the holidays, avoiding the festive rush and urge to socialise – give yourself permission to take care of yourself and begin 2018 with a much-needed energy boost.
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