ONE SPECIAL THING AT CHRISTMAS

Hi,  Last night at 11.40pm I was writing a to do list, when I woke this morning I thought of other things to add to the list.  It is the time of the year, school finishing up, deadlines at work, Christmas and all the other day to day things that demand attention.  When we are rushing from one thing to another, how can we make Christmas a mindful time?  Remembering to be present where we are at any particular time is crucial.  What are your anxious signs.  For me awareness that there is tension in my stomach and chest and a feeling that my body needs to be elsewhere is the cue to take a moment and focus on my breathing and remind myself to give all my attention to what I am doing right at that moment.  

A tip I would like to share that helps me reduce the pressure of this time of year is to ask yourself -  What is the one special thing you love about Christmas.  Ask your family or other special people you spend Christmas with what there most favourite thing is.  Concentrate on these things.  It might be Christmas Carols, lights, trimming the tree, cooking the pudding, family gathering, finding the right gift  or something else.  These are the traditions you create for yourself and your family and these are what you prioritise.  For my children they love Christmas lights so we make sure whatever happens they see lights.  Over the previous years I have made creating a Christmas booklet with quizzes and jokes a priority for a fun focus after Christmas lunch.  I also enjoy making Christmas cards.  This year my priority is on remaining calm at Christmas.  So if as long as people are fed and gifts are given if I remain calm and peaceful everything else is a bonus.  Wishing you a Christmas full of wonderful, special, moments with your loved ones.


Kim Dunn
Full time mother, wife, sister, daughter, friend; part time psychologist