This is a blog post in part to myself, but also to you too. I think we can all have some kind of anxieties during the Christmas season as there tends to be so much going on. We want to see all our friends before Christmas, but then we have work deadlines too. Everything also feels like it needs to be completed by the end of the year and then by the end of it all, you kind of just want it to be over... it's like we're just trying to make it through!
On saying that, I LOVE Christmas. I always joke that I'm some kind of Christmas elf that defrosts over Summer and is always raring to go by September. By the time December arrives though I feel worn out and ready for the break.
I know the festive season is meant to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for many of us, it can also feel overwhelming. From juggling endless to-do lists and hosting duties to navigating family dynamics, social events, and the pressure to create a “perfect” Christmas, it’s no surprise that stress levels can skyrocket.
And let’s not forget the anxiety that often comes with big gatherings, dealing with lots of people, or feeling out of control when things don’t go exactly as planned. Sound familiar?
So, here are some of my top tips to keep us all semi-sane throughout the coming week. I say 'semi' sane because I'm no miracle worker I'm afraid, but I will do my best here!
1. Breathe Through the Chaos
When emotions run high—whether it’s a tense family conversation or the anxiety of hosting a big group—remember your breath can be your anchor. Taking slow, intentional breaths not only calms your nervous system but also gives you space to respond calmly.
Try this quick fix:
Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for six.
Repeat five times.
Pair this with a moment of aromatherapy to elevate the experience. I recommend using The Face Oil - warm a few drops in your hands, cup them over your nose, and breathe deeply. The grounding scent works wonders for calming the mind while nourishing the skin.
2. Let Go of the Need for Perfection
We all want Christmas to go perfectly, but trying to control every little detail only creates more stress. Instead, focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones, sharing a meal, or simply taking in the festive atmosphere.
Quick fix: Make a list of your top three priorities for the day and let the rest go. Perfection isn’t the goal; peace is.
To help set the tone for a calm day, light a candle or diffuse essential oils with a soothing scent. My Calm Botanical Elixir is a great option for an oil burner to create a calming atmosphere in any room.
3. Handle Social Anxiety with Preparation
For those who find big gatherings stressful, preparation is key. Practice some grounding techniques before heading into a social event to help ease nerves. Remind yourself that it’s okay to step away for a breather if things feel overwhelming. If I know I'm going to be anxious I always do some meditation or exercise before any big event just to burn off the nervous energy.
Quick fix: I have been using the Headspace app for years now and it is an absolute game changer in my opinion. That combined with a good yoga practice and I'm ready to tackle most things. Click here for a free 30 day guest pass for Headspace
4. Unwind After a Busy Day
The festive period can be go-go-go, leaving little time to rest. Prioritise moments of self-care, especially in the evening, to wind down and recharge for the next day.
Quick fix: Try a 10-minute self-massage with my Cleansing Beauty Balm and my Fluorite Gua Sha. The act of massaging your skin not only boosts circulation but also helps release tension stored in the face and jaw. I love to do a cleanse first with my balm to remove any makeup and dirt from the day, then I do a second cleanse with my Cleansing Beauty Balm and a gentle massage with either my hands or my Fluorite Gua Sha.
5. Take Control of Festive Overwhelm with a Schedule
If you’re feeling like there’s too much to do and not enough time, creating a simple schedule can work wonders. Block out certain times for key jobs but leave room for flexibility—you don’t have to do it all at once! Planning is always key in my life and sometimes I love to just sit and write everything down. It helps release the overwhelm in my brain and allows me to think clearer.
Quick fix: Write your schedule down the night before and do it in a calming environment. Put the oil burner on and some calming music to help you plan in a calm space.
6. Fuel Your Body and Skin
Stress and festive indulgences (hello, mince pies and sugary treats!) can leave your skin looking dull and tired. Keep your body and skin nourished to feel your best.
Quick fix:
Sip on Skinade for a hydration and vitamin boost from within. Yes it is an amazing collagen supplement, but it also contains your B Vitamins, amino acids, vitamin C, Omega 3's plus much more.
Follow up with a gentle exfoliation with the SkinBetter Science's AlphaRet Peel Pads to restore your skin’s glow. (Fill out this form here to purchase)
7. Set Boundaries with Family Members
Family gatherings can sometimes stir up old dynamics or things that stress you out. It’s okay to set boundaries and protect your peace.
Quick fix: Practice saying no politely but firmly if a conversation or task feels overwhelming. Remember the 'compliment sandwich', say something nice, then maybe something more honest and then follow with something nice again. It's a gentle way of getting your point across without overly offending people.
8. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
It’s easy to fall into the trap of “doing it all” during the festive period. Remember, rest and recovery is productive too.
Quick fix: Dedicate 20 minutes in the afternoon to sit with a cup of tea, read a book, or simply close your eyes. Maybe try my 'Time Out' Tea each day and give yourself at least 30 minutes to hide away and reset. This blend contains chamomile, lemon balm and liquorice (amongst many others) to help calm the mind and relax the body.
9. Start Your Day with Gratitude
A simple gratitude practice can shift your mindset and reduce stress. Take a moment each morning to reflect on three things you’re grateful for, big or small.
Quick fix: Use this time to also do your morning skincare ritual. Apply the Forlle’d Refining Lotion to hydrate and prepare your skin for the day ahead and follow by using the Gold Globe Facial Massager. I love to use this with the Refining lotion as it gives grip and helps to relieve tension around the jaw and jowl area.
10. End the Day on a Positive Note
Reflecting on what went well during the day can help you unwind and sleep better, even if things didn’t go perfectly.
Quick fix: Write down five highlights of your day, no matter how small. Journalling is something I've built into my day quite regularly. I try not to focus on the negative parts but more about ways I can improve things. If you've had five great things happen then it can't be all that bad right?!?!?
Also, if you're not into journalling, just run through 5 great things in your head before you go to bed. Just remind yourself how many great things happened that day. It's a great form of meditation to help you sleep.
Remember the festive season doesn’t have to be perfect to be great. Focus on your well-being and take small steps to manage stress.
Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. So, whether it’s a moment of aromatherapy, a calming skincare ritual, or simply stepping away to breathe, give yourself the gift of calm this Christmas.
I hope you've found this useful. I will definitely be re-reading it again myself!
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas,
Emmaline xxx
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