Stress-Free Christmas. Week 5: Forget New Year's Resolutions

# Christmas and New Year: A time for reflection and peace

## How to avoid New Year's resolutions?

For many of us, Christmas and New Year are a turning point, when something old comes to an end. We tend to take stock, remember, recalculate and want to improve a lot of things. If you are still making New Year's resolutions in good faith, forget about them this year. The turn of the year is not a good time for any radical changes.

December is often full of deadlines, assessments, pressure to perform, social obligations, and emotional balance sheets. What have we accomplished and what haven’t we? In this state, we naturally crave relief, not change. Resolutions are then born more from the feeling of “I’m not okay with myself” than from internal motivation. But change driven by shame and pressure is short-lived. As soon as fatigue, stress, or the first failure sets in, self-criticism returns even more strongly.

The end of the year and the beginning of a new one is therefore not the ideal time for a "fresh start." And it's not about weak willpower, but about how our psyche and body work.

What do I need most right now?

Forcing yourself to make radical changes in January goes against the natural rhythm of the nervous system, which is in harmony with nature. It's cold and drizzly outside, nature is sleeping. The same thing is happening in your body. Winter is a time of slowing down, integration, rest, and satiety.

Spend more time in nature. Even a city park counts. Go to bed early and take a short nap in the middle of the day. It is ideal to include regular meditation during this period. Pay attention to how you feel inside – your feelings and emotions. How to do it?

Feel your feelings - Bodyscan

Simply scan your body. Feel it part by part and notice where you have zones of tension. Where are the parts that are more relaxed? What are your feelings at this moment? What do you perceive?

Sit or lie down and first become aware of the points where your body touches the ground or chair. Relax. Scan your body. Start with your feet, work your way up – calves, thighs, hips, belly, chest, shoulders, arms, neck and head. Notice the sensations in each area. Are they pleasant or unpleasant? Don’t dwell on them, just be an observer. Observation allows for detachment, which allows for relaxation, which allows for acceptance.

Try our gratitude bodyscan meditation led by instructor Jana Kyriaka. And leave new beginnings for spring.

How to take care of your mental well-being?

In today's busy world, it's important to take care of your mental well-being. Many people struggle with stress and anxiety. How can we improve our mental well-being? Here are some tips:

1. Regular exercise : Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress and improve your mood. Find an activity that you enjoy. It could be walking, running, cycling, or dancing.

   
   

2. Meditation and mindfulness : These techniques help calm the mind and focus on the present moment. Regular meditation can significantly reduce stress levels.

   
   

3. Creative activities : Engaging in creative activities, such as painting, writing, or music, can be a great way to express your emotions and relieve stress.

   
   

4. Social interaction : Keeping in touch with friends and family is crucial for our mental well-being. Share your thoughts and feelings with people you trust.

   
   

5. Get enough sleep : Quality sleep is the foundation of good mental well-being. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a comfortable sleep environment.

   
   

Conclusion

Remember that the turn of the year is a time for reflection and peace. There is no need to force yourself into radical changes. Focus on your mental health and take time to relax. New beginnings deserve spring. Enjoy the winter season and be kind to yourself.

Author: Veronika Veselá