December, the last month of the year, with its crisp air and festive ambiance is a time that carries both unique beauty and distinct challenges. While the holiday season is undeniably a significant part of December, it’s essential to recognise that the entire month is not solely defined by festivities. In the pursuit of wellbeing, it’s crucial to appreciate the distinctive features of December, balance the joys of the season with self-care and resist the pressures of excessive consumerism.
The Unique Charms of December
- Nature’s symphony: Take a moment to appreciate the unique beauty of December’s nature. The air may be crisp and, if you’re lucky, you might find yourself surrounded by a magnificent winter light display in the sky whose magic is unparalleled. Embrace the winter scenery by taking getting outside as much as possible, connecting with nature and breathing in the fresh air.
- Reflecting on the year: The weeks in December provide a natural pause for reflection. Take time to review the past eleven months, acknowledging your achievements and learning from the challenges you faced. Thinking about setting realistic goals for the coming year can bring a sense of purpose and anticipation.
- Festive diversity: While Christmas is a highlight, December also hosts celebrations from various cultures and religions. Embrace the diversity by learning about and participating in different festivities. This can broaden your perspective and add a rich tapestry to your December experience.
Navigating the Challenges
- The overarching festive hype: It’s easy to get swept away in the wave of holiday fervour. Give yourself permission to enjoy the festive season at your own pace. Recognise that not every moment needs to be filled with activities and that it’s okay to take breaks.
- Consumerism and marketing pressure: December often comes with a surge in marketing, enticing us to buy more than we need. Resist the pressure by setting a budget for food, drinks, gifts and decorations.
- Mindful consumption: Instead of succumbing to the buy-and-discard culture, opt for sustainable choices. Consider homemade gifts, reusable decorations, and eco-friendly wrapping. Mindful consumption of everything not only benefits the environment but also
promotes a sense of fulfilment and purpose.
Wellbeing strategies for December
As winter descends with its colder, darker days, it is not uncommon to experience a dip in mood and an increased sense of burnout. The festive season, while filled with joy for many can also bring added pressures related to spending, alcohol consumption and other potentially harmful behaviours. In these challenging times, it’s crucial to recognise that you are not alone. Acknowledging the widespread impact of low mood and various challenges during winter is the first step towards better mental health. Remember that there are services available to provide specialised support during this season. Also, there is much you can do in your daily life to ensure an enjoyable and healthy December.
Here are our nine tips for a healthy December:
- Keep active: Exercise is a powerful tool to enhance both physical and mental well-being. Engaging in activities like walking, swimming, playing sports, gardening, or any enjoyable, heart-rate-raising pursuit for at least 30 minutes a day can significantly improve sleep
patterns and quality. - Eat well: While occasional treats are acceptable, maintaining a balanced diet is essential for a healthy mind. Incorporate a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables alongside carbohydrates to ensure sustained energy levels. Budget-friendly, hearty meals can be both nutritious and comforting.
- Take advantage of sunshine: Even on cloudy days, exposure to natural light, particularly during the midday hours, can boost Vitamin D intake and contribute to overall happiness. This simple habit can positively impact mood and well-being.
- Avoid comparisons: Social media and advertisements often present a glamorous version of others’ lives, especially during the festive season. Realistic expectations, self-care plans and focusing on personal joys can mitigate the negative impact of unrealistic comparisons.
- Participate in the community: Loneliness can intensify during the festive period, but local community and social groups offer opportunities for connection. Volunteering not only reduces isolation but also instils a sense of purpose.
- Connect with others in similar situations: Maintaining regular support group attendance, especially during the holiday period, is vital. Socialising has proven benefits for mental health and maintaining connections with others is essential for overall well-being.
- Plan for problem-free celebrations: Identify potential triggers for negative feelings or behaviours and develop strategies to avoid them. Planning alternative activities or seeking support from a key worker can help navigate challenging situations.
- Talk things through: Seeking professional help through counselling, psychotherapy or cognitive-behavioural therapy can provide valuable coping mechanisms. Alternatively, a simple conversation with friends or family can positively shift your perspective.
- Make realistic resolutions: As the New Year approaches, set achievable resolutions that build on past successes. Reflect positively on the year’s achievements and focus on gradual improvements to foster sustainable change.
December beckons us to navigate its waters with intention and mindfulness. Beyond the glittering lights and festive decorations lies an opportunity to create a deeply fulfilling experience, one that acknowledges the unique beauty of the month, addresses its challenges and prioritises your wellbeing above all.
By incorporating wellness strategies into your routine, you can not only endure the winter months but also emerge stronger and more resilient in the New Year. Remember, seeking support and implementing positive habits are key steps toward a healthier and happier winter season. Give yourself the gift of balance, mindfulness and the freedom to shape December in a way that aligns with your values and brings genuine joy.
Listen ‘HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast: COVID-19 & Flu Vaccines Explained’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ds17L6Bq84
Read ‘The nature cure: how time outdoors transforms our memory, imagination and logic’
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/nov/27/the-nature-cure-how-time-outdoors-
transforms-our-memory-imagination-and-logic
