Hang in there peeps, we’ve almost made it!

Tis the season to be jolly and all that but I know this time of year exerts so much extra pressure on us as parents. caregivers and human beings. How are you feeling? Excited? Overwhelmed? Exhausted?. All of these and more? With the endless to do lists and weight of expectation bearing down on you does anyone else want to crawl under a duvet and sleep for a couple days, at least?

Here’s an idea…You can say no. No to social engagements, no to people pleasing, no to anything extra curricular for the gram. No to matching pjs and elf of the shelf.

Instead I’m embracing a slower pace. I’m saying yes to movies by the fire, making paper decorations, and winter walks without my phone. Spend time with your family and play games. Your Christmas will be gorgeous.

My three simple tips for finding a modicum of calm among the festive madness.

1 Get outside.

There is no such thing as bad weather.  Wrap up warm, get outside and Get some fresh air. Yes it takes me approximately 2 hours to get everyone ready with all the winter layers but it’s worth it once you are out! Oh and leave your phone at home.

2 Alone time.

Beg, steal borrow to get some alone time. Put the extra relatives to good use by suggesting they take your little loves off your hands for an hour and spend it how you wish. In the bath, out with pals, alone in bed?

As we sat in the north east. Shy bairns get nowt- which translates to ‘if you don’t ask you won’t get’. I know it can be hard to let go of the reigns and trust someone else with your precious cargo but I guarantee you’ll be a better person once you’ve filled up your own cup!

3.Move your body.

In this modern and technological life it’s rare that we get to properly connect with our bodies. Just 15 minutes can make a huge difference to your energy level and mental clarity. Get your little people involved if needs be but roll out your mat, find a little space and commit to honouring your body with some juicy movement. This is such a good example for your little people to see.

A note on thinking about intentions for 2023. First and foremost don’t spend a second on this until you spent some time reflecting on your 2022 and celebrating your wins, no matter how small.

If goals work for you, go right ahead. Write them down, and go back to them often. But Let’s remember life is for living, look for joy in the small things. If goal planning does not work for you and you find yourself writing lists of goals that you aren’t achieving, perhaps you could think instead of how you want to feel and think of ways to help you get there. Scheduling time for a barre class, a meditation and seeing friends. Make space in your life for fun and joy and you are well on your way to feeling better all round.

I’m starting small this year and I’m going chose a theme for the year ahead. This year mine is practising gratitude especially at the times when I’m pulling out my hair and in the trenches with lack of sleep and way too much coffee.

Like meditation, gratitude is a muscle that needs to be strengthened and a state you can learn to drop into. The more you practise the easier it becomes.

Lastly you don’t have to do this alone. Get a mentor, a coach a guide. Even ask a friend. That little bit of accountability or your own personal cheerleader can be a game changer to help you achieve anything you want.

Here’s to a happy and healthy 2023!

xx, Clare Court