While many of us look forward to Christmas as a time filled with fun and festivities, we also know that it comes with its own challenges and stresses.
Although the gift of giving is a central part of our Christmas tradition, giving back to ourselves is equally important at this time of year, ensuring we look after our mind and body during what can be a particularly frantic time for some, and a time of mixed emotions for others.
To help navigate the festive season, here are five self-care strategies to support your wellbeing in the weeks ahead (and beyond)…
1. BE MINDFUL
During all the noise of Christmas, it’s important to take time to ‘breathe’. Mindfulness practices such as breathing techniques, meditation and yoga help us reduce stress and anxiety and can help improve our mental health.
Whether you carve out time first thing in the morning, or take a break during the day, making space for mindfulness moments is shown to help us cope better with difficult or stressful situations, whether that’s Christmas or any other time of the year.
On Northcote Road, Willow Yoga offers ‘Flow’ yoga – a creative and fluid class where mindful movement and rhythmic breathing come together, and ‘Chill 60’ – the ultimate self-care, slower-paced flow class.
Alternatively, Sadhana Yoga on St John’s Hill offers a safe sanctuary for those who wish to explore bodywork to facilitate their emotional and psychological wellbeing, as well as physical health. Their ‘Vinyasa Mindful’ yoga class is all about moving mindfully, following your breath to a focused, non-judgemental awareness of each moment and is open to all levels – a great place to start if you’re new to yoga.
2. GET CREATIVE
Did you know that when you become fully absorbed in something creative like arts and crafts, the focus required is a form of active meditation and a great way to lift your spirits and lighten feelings of worry and stress?
In Clapham Junction, the Battersea Library offers an excellent selection of FREE community events throughout the year, including craft workshops, art talks and colouring groups – all of which provide a great distraction from the chaos around Christmas, and help calm the mind.
Alternatively, Northcote Art School on Northcote Road offer creative workshops and lessons for young artists and adults, with a focus on the process of making art rather than the final outcome. So you’ll be free to explore, experiment and express yourself without fear of judgement.
3. STAY ACTIVE
Aside from improving our physical wellbeing and fitness, staying active releases feel-good hormones which boost our mood and energy.
Scientifically, we know that it helps reduce tension, anxiety and stress, improves our sleep and helps calm the mind. It’s also a fantastic way to stay connected and reduce isolation, especially as part of group exercise classes and activities.
Milo and The Bull on St John’s Hill offer just that. More than a gym, it’s an inclusive community. Their strength classes, high-intensity circuits and rowing-focused classes can be tailored to cater to different fitness levels and abilities. And, with regular social events, it’s a great place to fire up those endorphins while making new friends along the way.
On St John’s Hill, you’ll also find 12 Round Boxing – a fun, vibrant and inclusive boxing gym in the heart of Clapham Junction.
Boxing is a great way to stay fit and healthy, both in mind and body and, if you’re new to the sport, Kat and her team offer ‘Boxing Fundamentals’ – an entry programme where you’ll learn everything from how to wrap your hands and stand correctly, to footwork, punches, punch combinations and defence. Aside from being a space to work out, 12 Rounds is also a safe space to push yourself in a truly supportive environment.
(Image credit: Milo and The Bull)
4. REST WELL
While being active is important to our overall wellbeing, so is the need to rest and recharge, especially during the busy Christmas season with all its demands on our time. Taking quiet moments to re-energise can pay dividends to both our mental and physical health, as does a good night’s sleep.
If you’re having trouble winding down, a touch of reflexology may be just the ticket. At Reflexions on Northcote Road, reflexologists can improve the flow of energy through the body by stimulating different areas on the feet. This allows a deep state of relaxation, and the production of endorphins helps reduce stress and pain.
Alternatively, BEN Health & Beauty on St John’s Road is an exclusive massage clinic with a holistic approach, offering a full range of relaxing and therapeutic massages to help optimise health and wellbeing.
Whichever way you choose to wind down, getting rest and a good sleep will calm and restore the body, better preparing us for the next day.
5. ASK FOR HELP
Remember, none of us is superhuman and getting everything done for Christmas can be a struggle. Plus, with the change in seasons and the onset of shorter days and darker months, any underlying feelings of stress or anxiety may be amplified at this time of year.
Self-care strategies are just some of the ways to lighten the load but there may be times when we need extra support. If you’re ever struggling or feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to speak up.
Whether it’s speaking to friends or family or seeking specialist support from your local GP, there are always people on hand to help.
Remember, whatever you do this Christmas, take good care of yourself.
Your local Clapham Junction GPs: Battersea Rise GP | BUPA Health Centre | My Healthcare Clinic | St John’s Hill Surgery (Begg Practice)
#christmas #wellbeing #movember
