Six ways to support yourself through the silly season

If family commitments, Christmas parties, wrapping up at work for the year, and feeling the financial pressure, here are some ways to support yourself through the holiday period:

1. There's an app for that

If we've learned anything this year, it's that online resources and technology are invaluable tools in difficult times. When it comes to daily practices for wellbeing, an app can be a great reminder to take a moment for yourself - it will literally send you a reminder! What works for each of us is highly individual, but good options to choose from include any of the myriad of high-quality meditation apps out there, or an app for guided breathing exercises or mindfulness. There are even apps to remind you to stop and hydrate.

2. Your healthcare practitioner can be your greatest ally

Whatever type of therapy you choose, your healthcare practitioner is there for you and has your best interests at heart. Often, they can see the big picture of your health when you're feeling run down, stuck, exhausted or pulled in too many directions. Make sure to book in some time either side of the holidays so you can discuss your needs in a calm, supportive and safe environment.

3. Be prepared

Meal prepping isn't just for gym junkies - it's for anyone wanting to feel their best and most energetic throughout the season. Ensuring you have some healthy meals stashed away in the fridge for when your social calendar is packed will help you make more nutritious choices - and that can have a big impact on your energy, mood and digestion.

4. Do you have a support network?

Who do talk to when you've had a bad day or can't decide the best solution to a pressing issue? You may not always think of reaching out to a trusted friend or family member when you're feeling worried or stressed - but now is the time to consider who you can call on. Talking things through can often be enough to lift your spirits and help you to feel more supported.

5. A supplement can offer extra support

You don't have to tough it out over the holidays! Your goal is to not only survive the silly season but come out thriving. So, consider combining a good support network and some great resources for mental wellbeing with a herbal supplement. Fusion Stress & Anxiety contains a highly concentrated extract of the herb ashwagandha called KSM-66®, which provides relief for symptoms of stress and mild anxiety and enhances the body's ability to adapt to stress. Fusion Stress & Anxiety also contains polygala, used to reduce irritability and excess nervous energy, based on traditional use in Chinese medicine.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

6. Show your community spirit

Whether this year whizzed by for you or dragged on forever, acknowledging the ending of the year and marking the occasion can be therapeutic. Carving out some time to get together with your favourite group of people and enjoy a community event in your area is not limited to a particular holiday. After all, with COVID restrictions easing, isn't that worthy of a little community celebration? Check out your council's events guide for the latest local events near you.

Reference:
*Saxena RC, et al. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2012; 894509:1-7.