As fun as Christmas is, we know it doesn’t all come together overnight! Despite your festive face, we know there’s a lot more to the Christmas celebrations than a cooked bird and a few Christmas crackers! From navigating the post to get cards out on time to picking and hanging the decorations, preparations start long before the 25th...

Here are some tips for keeping stress-free during the crazy time of year that is Christmas...

Embrace the predictability!

The one good thing about Christmas stress is that it is predictable. Unlike other types of stress that we encounter in life, we know exactly when it will start and when it will finish! Everyone’s in the same boat. However it seems, don’t imagine for one minute that others are floating around Xmas stress-free...

...And be realistic

Have realistic expectations about Christmas, copying a glossy magazine Christmas or keeping up with the Jones’ is exhausting, do it your way and you’ll look back with pride! Besides, you can make the Christmas tree from scratch next year...

Embrace disasters!

Something always goes wrong, it’s the charm and irony of Christmas, spending hours prepping the turkey then burning the gravy – you have to laugh! Whip the Bisto out and carry on, no one minds!

Know your limits

If it’s getting a bit too much, have a sit down or even a little nap. The world won’t end if you’re not constantly on your feet. Rope someone else in for a while, they’ll be happy to help and you’ll thank yourself for it later!

Surprise yourself

If you need a change, this year's celebrations are an opportunity to do something that you haven’t before. Even if it’s just a different seasoning on the turkey or slightly different decorations, spice it up this year for something different!

Know when to say no

If you often wind up with too many activities and obligations at Christmas and find yourself flapping because you don’t have enough time for your own Christmas stuff, just say no! Don’t feel you have to agree to everything. After all, Christmas is about relaxing with your family and friends, your true loved ones...

Last of all, relax...