taurean Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 (edited) It's a real challenge to fit everything in at Christmas, and when we struggle, and stress creeps in, that can open up a route for OCD to get a hold. So it follows that if we can keep a lid on the stress, we can also aid our resilience against an OCD relapse at Christmas. Here I am approaching my 68th Christmas (I think, never was good at maths). So what have I learned that helps reduce stress at this time? Make a basic plan and timeline and spread tasks around others. Don't let them be couch potatoes while you get frazzled; everyone must lend a hand. If it's going to be too much, cut it out. Last year we sent no cards out - we focused our attention on what was needed to get our house sale and purchase through. Don't become a slave to peer pressure. If you are struggling to conform, stop and don't. Don't be afraid to say no. Once you have done it once, it gets a whole lot easier. If need be, for any short, critical, time get up earlier, stay up later to get things over the line. Ban others from areas being worked on - with the exception of your designated helpers. Make sure you allow for some essential me-time and recovery time. Don't try and resolve stress with drinking alcohol - it only makes things worse. Learn some simple relaxation techniques (YouTube has some great videos) and take essential breaks. And make sure someone puts out Santa's mince pie and soft drink on Christmas Eve Edited December 13, 2018 by taurean Link to comment
gingerbreadgirl Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 good tips Roy. I am trying to feel Christmassy but honestly I don't really want it this year, I'd be happy to cancel the whole thing! It is just too much of everything! Link to comment
taurean Posted December 13, 2018 Author Share Posted December 13, 2018 That was us last year with the whole house sale and purchase proving challenging Do your best and all the best Roy Link to comment
gingerbreadgirl Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 I'm glad you and Julie are feeling more up to Christmas this year hope you both have a lovely time Link to comment
taurean Posted December 13, 2018 Author Share Posted December 13, 2018 It's Christmas jumper day tomorrow and Julie bought me a Rudolph one in a cheapskate store, as the cafe are having a themed day for it tomorrow Thanks for the best wishes GBG. Link to comment
Niamhalexandrax Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 Nice tips going to try some more me time & cutting things out, usually love xmas time but with uni&work, being away from home this year and everything else that’s going on I’m under crazy stress and having no time for myself at all .. Wishing u a happy Christmas x Link to comment
helen10937 Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 Thanks for the helpful post roy Link to comment
lostinme Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 Bless you Roy you are such a star ️ always here to offer support and help to others Link to comment
taurean Posted December 15, 2018 Author Share Posted December 15, 2018 (edited) We are having a minimalist Christmas. All the glamour will be in and around our village We are minimal decorations. A wreath on the door, a small nativity set and a miniature pre-dressed tree. Our proper Christmas lunch will be 3 days early, and in the local pub under a reservation. Iceland have come up with a nice stuffed chicken breast and some frozen sweets for us on Christmas day. No Christmas lights this year at home ; but plenty around us Edited December 15, 2018 by taurean Link to comment
ecomum Posted December 16, 2018 Share Posted December 16, 2018 Thank you Roy. Great to have advice from someone who understands. Thank you. Link to comment
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