How to switch off this Christmas
Words by Gail Shortland
The holiday season can feel overwhelming. Between shopping, social events, and family obligations, it’s easy to reach December feeling stressed. This Christmas, give yourself the gift of rest.
Switching off for the festive season isn’t about escaping life, it’s about slowing down, enjoying the moment, and reconnecting. Here’s how to switch off and truly enjoy the festive season.
1. Set boundaries early
Decide which events, commitments, or conversations are essential and what you can politely skip. Clear boundaries reduce stress and create space for joy.
- Social boundaries: Choose the gatherings that matter most.
- Work boundaries: Let colleagues know your availability in advance.
- Digital boundaries: Limit emails, messages, and notifications.
2. Create a cosy, stress-free space
Your environment affects your ability to switch off. A warm, inviting space signals your brain that it’s time to relax. By making your environment cosy and calming, you naturally ease into a restful holiday mindset.
- Declutter your immediate area: A tidy space reduces stress and mental noise.
- Add cosy touches: Soft blankets, candles, or fairy lights make your surroundings comforting.
- Play calming sounds: Gentle music, nature sounds, or a crackling fireplace can instantly soothe your mind.
3. Prioritise sleep
Late nights and early mornings can disrupt your rhythm. Better sleep means more energy for festive fun.
- Keep a consistent sleep schedule.
- Create a restful bedroom: dim lights, no screens, calming scents.
- Take short naps to recharge.
4. Practice mindful eating
Holiday meals are delicious, but overindulgence can leave you sluggish. Mindful eating reduces stress and lets you enjoy the season fully.
- Savor each bite: focus on flavour and texture.
- Listen to your body: stop when full.
- Balance treats with fruits, vegetables, and hydration.
5. Move your body
Gentle movement keeps energy balanced and lifts your mood. Movement doesn’t have to be intense, even light activity helps.
- Walks: 20 minutes after a meal refreshes your mind.
- Stretch or do yoga: Relieve tension from sitting or traveling.
- Dance: Play festive music and move around the living room.
6. Reconnect with nature
Spending time outdoors reduces stress and improves focus. Nature grounds you and offers a calm counterbalance to holiday chaos.
- Take a winter walk in fresh air.
- Bring nature indoors: greenery, pinecones, or flowers.
- Observe mindfully: notice colours, smells, and textures.
7. Embrace mindfulness
Mindfulness keeps you present, reduces holiday anxiety and lets you appreciate moments instead of rushing through them.
- Gratitude practice: Write three things you’re thankful for each day.
- Deep breathing: Five minutes can calm your mind.
- Single-task focus: Give full attention to one activity at a time.
8. Simplify gift-giving
High expectations can create stress. Simplifying gifts keeps the focus on connection, not consumption.
- Stick to realistic budgets.
- Choose meaningful gifts, like experiences or homemade treats.
- Let go of perfectionism. Imperfect moments are often more memorable.
9. Prioritise quality time
Switching off doesn’t mean isolating yourself, it’s about intentional engagement. Intentional connections are far more rewarding than busy schedules.
- Focus on quality conversations over quantity of events.
- Enjoy shared rituals like cooking, games, or storytelling.
- Be present, not distracted by phones or multitasking.
10. Plan post-holiday recovery
Even with the best intentions, the holidays can be intense. Recovery time ensures you carry the calm into the new year.
- Schedule downtime: Block a few days for rest.
- Reflect on the year: Journaling or quiet contemplation.
- Ease back into work gradually: Avoid plunging straight into full schedules.
Photos: Getty
