Are You a Bah Humbug? December 21st is Your Day!
December the 21st is Humbug Day! It’s a day where everyone preparing for Christmas can vent their frustrations. But if you’re not enthused about Christmas here are five things to enjoy this festive season regardless.
Make a no cards or presents 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.
Christmas dinner doesn’t have to include Turkey and all the trimmings!
So, turkey and all 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.
Take a trip to the cinema or theatre – or stay in for a movie fest!
Avoid the Christmas movies and treat yourself to a trip to see one of the many blockbusters that are out at this time of year. This year there are some incredible films out not to mention the offerings on Apple TV, Netflix and Amazon! This is a great time of year to snuggle up and watch a movie.
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 foodbanks by donating a box of goods or volunteering time to help distribute to those in 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 2019 with a much-needed energy boost.
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