You walk into the shops… a barrage of tinsel and baubles assault your eyes… you feel a pit in your stomach – is it Christmas already??? But there is still so much to do!

Many people find the holidays incredibly stressful, and a time that is meant to be full of wonder and joy, ends up being full of fights and anxiety.

This year has been an extra challenging year, so we thought, what better way to welcome in the festive season, than to look at 8 things you can do this month, to make Christmas a joy-filled, stress-free time.

1. Exercise
Let’s get this one out of the way first. Exercise is the first thing to fall away when we go into holiday mode… This year, let’s make exercise our priority. Perhaps you will be away, and you can take a walk on the beach or the park? Maybe your grandchildren are visiting for the holidays and they can join you for an online class? If you incorporate exercise into your fun, it can keep you strong, healthy and get those endorphins pumping.

2. Get Creative
There are a plethora of ideas online to get those creative juices flowing. So why not take a day to create something?
Some ideas to get you thinking…

• Make Christmas crackers with toilet rolls and crepe paper.
• Build a gingerbread house.
• Make a wreath for your door with greenery from the garden.

3. Say no to stuff
Do not undo all the good lockdown decluttering by buying lots this holiday. Ask family to buy you experiences such as an online cooking course or donate to a charity that needs it.

4. Support a charity
Donate to someone in need or give up your time to volunteer. This is the time to spread joy to those around you.

5. Share a meal
With COVID, it may not be safe to visit for a meal but consider making a meal for a friend or neighbour and dropping it off… just because you can.

6. Call a friend
Christmas can be a very lonely time for some. If this is you, reach out to your Silver Fit family. If you can – message someone in your group today who you know may be alone this season.

7. Play festive music and dance around the room
Adults do not spend enough time being “crazy”. Let loose and embrace your inner child. Rock around the Christmas tree!

8. Relax and make time for you
The most important tip is this one. Take time for yourself, do not try to please everyone and rest when you need to. We can spend so much time focussing on others, at the expense of ourselves. Take time out each day to do what makes your heart sing.

What are your favourite things to do in this season? We would love to hear about your traditions and whether you are going to try any of the above this season?