Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.
— Norman Vincent Peale
I love Christmas. But I am also the first one to acknowledge that it can be a stressful time. All the shopping, meal preparation and diverse personalities that come together can make the joyous season seem more like the joyless season. It doesn’t have to be this way. There are lots of things that Traditional Medicine teaches which can help mitigate the stress and put joy in your heart.
In Australia, Christmas means summer. This means it is a Yang time of year and fire rules. Which can mean anxiety. But never fear. Balance is key and there are several tips for making sure you find your sweet spot.
Be nice to yourself. This time of year we tend to focus on others – which is great but don’t forget to be nice to you. Treat yourself to some acupuncture or a massage. Buy yourself that perfume or handbag you’ve been wanting. The world won’t explode if you give a gift to you and you’ll feel better and more inclined to pass along the good vibes to others.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself physically. Go for a walk. Lift some weights. Or play that game of cricket your kids have been bugging you about. Exercise releases endorphins. Endorphins make you feel happy. And happy is what Christmas is all about.
Relax. Unwind. Rest. Taking time to watch a favourite movie, listen to some Christmas music or read a good book is paramount to your peace and good will. Don’t ignore it. You aren’t being self-centered…you are recharging your batteries so you can be there for your loved ones. Self-care is never selfish.
Overindulgence is a no-no. Everywhere we go this time of year there is food. Most of it is not going to be healthy so indulge in moderation. We are lucky here in Australia that Christmas coincides with summer…the fresh fruit season! Replace sugar cookies and candy canes with some cherries, grapes or blueberries and your body, heart and mind will thank you.
Finally, have a good time. Fun is freedom. And remembering to enjoy yourself is the best medicine of all. Laugh with your parents, play games with your kids and enjoy giving gifts to your nearest and dearest.
Christmas is for family and friends. Cherish the season and they will thank you for it all year long.