5 tips to boost motivation and avoid overwhelm this festive season

The festive season is here! Now is a great time to prepare for Christmas. The winter months can be a difficult time – short days, less daylight and cold weather. If these seasonal changes are causing a lack of motivation, you are not alone and this article is here to help you.

Let’s face it, as lovely as the festive season is, it can be pretty overwhelming! So, here are 5 simple tips to bring some zen to your December festivities…

1. Prioritise YOU

It’s easy to put yourself on the back burner while creating Christmas magic for those around you, but self-care is SO important. Especially at this time of year! Going into December, stressed and snotty is not fun for anyone. Here are 5 things you can do to nourish your mind and body –

Nutrition – staying well in the winter has a lot to do with what you are and aren’t putting into your body. We love the 80/20 rule here at Chuckling Goat! 80% of the time, focus on eating well for your gut and overall health while indulging in some of your favourite treats 20% of the time. Three non-negotiables for staying well this winter are Kefir, vitamin C, and vitamin D.

Exercise – Did you know regular moderate-intensity exercise positively affects your immunity?¹ Now isn’t the time to be skipping those all-important workouts! A robust immune system will protect you from the increasing number of viruses.

Time in nature – spending time outdoors in nature can support your mental wellness by reducing stress and improving mood,² allowing you to enjoy Christmas to the fullest!

Mindfulness practices – these all-important practices include meditation, breathwork, journaling, and yoga. Find a practice that brings you calm amid the chaos! These practices are essential all year round but can be especially useful during busy periods of life.

Activities you enjoy – this will vary for everyone, but here are some ideas – cooking, baking, reading a book, drawing, painting, having a warm bath. Find something that brings you joy! Joy is an important emotion that can reduce stress, improve immunity, and promote a longer life.³

2. Declutter & deep clean your space

During the festive period, you may have an influx of presents and visiting family members, which always comes with a level of chaos – even if it is lovely! So, decluttering and deep cleaning before Christmas can help alleviate the clutter and mess. It will leave you feeling less stressed and ready to celebrate with your nearest and dearest! Remember – a cluttered space is a cluttered mind.

3. Use lists to prepare & organise

There can be lots to remember during the festive season; sometimes, it can all feel a bit much! Make to-do lists your new best friend. These lists will help you stay organised and avoid overwhelm.

Grab your notepad, here are four list ideas to use this December:

Present list
Christmas food shopping list
Recipe list
Cooking schedule list

4. Plan your recipes

Are you cooking on the big day? If you are, you probably have a lot to organise. Now is a great time to find the recipes you want to use, plan the timings for your cooking, and create your food shopping list. Check which recipes can be made ahead of time, which will ease your workload on Christmas Day. With additional planning, cooking Christmas dinner for your family doesn’t need to be stressful!

5. Utilise online shopping

Online shopping is an easy and convenient way to stay organised. You can order all your presents and food items from the comfort of your own home. Allowing you to skip the crowds and enjoy a hot cuppa while you browse the shops. It’s a win-win!

Are you looking for more Christmas wellness tips? Check out these two articles – 3 ways Christmas dinner IS gut-healthy and 6 easy tips to feel your best over Christmas – without sacrifice!

Any questions? Contact one of our Nutritional Therapists via live chat, weekdays from 8am to 8pm.