Making Christmas Memories

Everyone is fearful of another lockdown at Christmas, another year in which we can’t see family and friends.  There may be some empty seats at the dinner table this year and more than the usual number of toasts to absent friends.

It is more important than ever before that we take time to sit back and relax this year and to enjoy being reunited with our family.  Many people spent last Christmas alone, only speaking to loved ones on the phone or via zoom.

In 2021 it is important that we don’t get overwhelmed by the desire to make a perfect Christmas.  Christmas isn’t about the perfectly wrapped present or the beautiful table centre.  Christmas is about making memories and having fun.

Whoever is doing the cooking you make sure they don’t miss out by being in the kitchen all morning. If the pigs in blankets are from the supermarket and not home-made does it really matter?  (And if someone says these are the best you have ever made, smile and keep your secret).

If you are feeling overwhelmed don’t mutter to yourself in the kitchen, ask for help.  Plan your day in advance thinking who will be present and allocate tasks like laying the table or peeling the potatoes.  Don’t ask or wait for them to offer, explain what needs to be done.  They might not realise you’re overwhelmed.

Christmas is for having fun not being a martyr.  So what if the custard is lumpy – it can become part of Christmas folklore.  The best Christmas memories are made up of conversations that go “remember the Christmas when…”.

If you need a break – five minutes alone away from the noise and the chatter -then take it even if it means locking yourself in the bathroom for a while.

Christmas is all about friends, family and the festivities, but self care is still important. This doesn’t have to mean another glass of sherry or too much wine, it can mean a much needed cup of tea and peace and quiet.  If the weather permits, five minutes outside in the fresh air can restore tattered nerves.

We don’t have to try even harder to make up for last year. Enjoying this year is what is important.

Whatever your plans are for Christmas I hope this year they go ahead for all of us and that you have a Very Merry Christmas!

I have worked as a hypnotherapist in Leatherhead and London and I also teach hypnotherapy and train new hypnotherapists. I offer a full range of services including anxiety coping mechanisms, stress relief, weight loss, stop smoking and treatment for phobias online via Zoom. Please get in touch to find out more.