Page 20 - Dainfern Precinct Living Issue 11 December 2024

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THRIVING THIS FESTIVE SEASON

TIPS FOR A JOYFUL AND STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY

he festive season can be a magical you value the time spent with them more go-to plan for stepping away if things feel
time filled with warmth, laughter, than material things. overwhelming. Remember, your presence at
and cherished moments with loved these events is enough—you don’t need to
Tones. However, the rush of end-of- TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF please everyone.
year obligations, family commitments, and The holiday season isn’t just about looking
the pressure to create the “perfect” holiday after others—it’s also about looking after CELEBRATE SMALL MOMENTS
can leave us feeling frazzled. By planning yourself. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a Sometimes, the simple things—a child’s
mindfully and keeping things simple, brisk walk, or an afternoon curled up with a delighted face when lighting the tree, a
you can focus on what really matters— book, make sure you recharge. When you’re shared laugh over an inside joke, or the
connection, joy, and making memories. well-rested and relaxed, you’ll have more quiet stillness of a December morning—
energy and patience to tackle the season’s make the season feel magical. Take a
PRIORITISE WHAT MATTERS MOST demands. moment to soak these in and savour them.
Before the season begins, take some time
to decide what’s truly important for you and NAVIGATE FAMILY DYNAMICS A FINAL THOUGHT
your family. Overloading your calendar with WITH CARE The festive season is about celebrating the
events or traditions that don’t resonate can Gatherings can sometimes bring out old things that truly matter: love, kindness, and
lead to stress. Instead, choose a handful tensions. Approach these situations with connection. Let go of the urge to overdo it
of activities that you all genuinely enjoy. grace and humour. Avoid sensitive topics and focus instead on creating moments
Whether it’s a family movie night or baking that might spark debates, and have a you and your family will treasure for years.
biscuits together, simplicity often brings the
most joy.
"Make sure you recharge. When you’re well-rested and
KEEP EXPECTATIONS REALISTIC relaxed, you’ll have more energy and patience to tackle
We often imagine holidays that look like
something out of a magazine, but real the season’s demands."
life rarely matches those glossy pages.
Embrace the imperfections—they’re often
where the best memories are made. A
burnt pie or a last-minute gift swap can
become the funniest story of the year.
Remind yourself and your loved ones that
the season’s spirit lies in togetherness, not
perfection.

BUDGET WITHOUT GUILT
Gift-giving can be tricky, but the thought
counts—not the price tag. Set a realistic
budget and stick to it. Like a jar of spiced
nuts or handwritten note, homemade gifts
often carry more meaning than store-bought
items. Let your family and friends know that
Pam van Wyk
18 DPL issue 11 2024