12/23/2025
🎄 Tips for a gentler festive season (for your mind and your heart) 🎄
This time of year can bring a mix of joy, emotions and pressure…So here are a few ways to move through the coming week without losing yourself in the process .
1) Lower the bar (just a little)
Perfection is exhausting. Connection matters more than matching napkins, perfect timing, or doing it all. Aim for “warm and enjoyable,” not “magazine-worthy.” if your house looks lived in… Great, because you live in it.
2) Give your nervous system a small signal of safety each day.
Take one slow breath in… and let the exhale be longer than the inhale. (the longer you exhale, the calmer you become)
Repeat at least 5 times. It’s simple… and it works. Your body starts to relax when it knows it doesn’t have to stay on alert.
3) Create breathing space in your calendar.
Don’t book everything back-to-back. Leave little pockets to recover — a quiet moment in the car, a walk around the block, five minutes with a cup of tea before you step into the next thing.
4) Protect your energy with kind boundaries.
You don’t need to give a big explanation. You can be loving and clear at the same time:
* “Thank you, I’m keeping things simple this year.”
* “That doesn’t work for me, I hope it’s a beautiful day.”
* “Thanks for inviting me, I’ll have to pass this time.”
5) Care for your body
Eat something nourishing, drink some water, and don’t run yourself on empty. Our body handles people and feelings much better when it’s supported. A quick protein snack can literally save the day!
6) Choose what truly matters.
Ask yourself: What do I want to feel this season?
Then pick one or two priorities that help you feel that way… and let the rest be optional.
7) You don’t have to attend every argument you’re invited to.
You can pause. Breathe. Change the subject. Go to the bathroom. Sip water like it’s a professional sport.
With warm holiday wishes from my home to yours đź’•
