As Christmas approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and activities. However, it's crucial to prioritise your health and wellbeing during this busy time too.

To help you stay on track and manage financial pressures ACSIS have provided a few tips and reminders. 

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Who doesn’t love a party? With festive treats and meals everywhere, it's so tempting to overindulge. To maintain a balanced diet, try and incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals. Treat yourself and enjoy your favourite festive foods in moderation and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if you are drinking more alcohol than you would normally.

Stay Active

Physical activity is essential for managing stress and maintaining energy levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day, whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or a fun dance workout it really doesn’t matter. Staying active will help you feel more energised and less stressed during the holiday season and you will feel like you have earned that drink or snack too. 

Prioritise Sleep

Getting enough rest is vital for your overall health and wellbeing. When you are not partying, ideally aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine leaving your phone outside of the bedroom and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness can help you stay grounded and present amidst the holiday hustle and bustle. Try and take just a few minutes each day to practice deep breathing, meditation, or simply sit quietly and reflect. This can help reduce stress and improve your mental clarity at a time when everyone seems to be buzzing around at 100mph. 

Managing Financial Pressure

The festive season can bring financial stress with the pressure to buy gifts, attend events, and host gatherings. Here are some tips to help you manage your finances and enjoy the holidays without breaking the bank.

Set a Budget

This might seem really obvious, but before you start shopping, set a realistic budget. Include gifts, decorations, food, and any other costs you anticipate. Stick to your budget to avoid overspending and creating financial stress.

Plan Ahead

Make a list of the people you need to buy gifts for and plan your purchases in advance. You can prioritise these purchases by breaking them into categories of ‘must’ ,‘could and ‘should’.  Look for sales, discounts, black Friday deals and discount codes to save money before you check out. Can you make something? Homemade gifts or experiences, such as a day out or a home-cooked meal can be more meaningful and cost-effective.

Focus on Experiences

Arguably most importantly, remember that the holiday season is about spending time with loved ones and creating memories. Focus on the experiences rather than material gifts. Organise a potluck dinner, go for a walk in the park, or have a movie night at home. These activities can be just as enjoyable and less costly.

By prioritising your health and wellbeing and managing your finances wisely, you can enjoy a joyful and stress-free festive season. Remember, it's the moments and connections that make the holidays special, not the price tags.