Five Simple Ways to Stay Sane This December (Without Becoming a Christmas Grinch)

December is here, and with it comes the festive chaos ( and fun!). Juggling work, managing a never-ending to-do list, preparing for the school holidays or the kids’ return ( trying not to trip over their laundry if they’re back from uni), and somehow pulling off the perfect Christmas. Sound familiar? If you’re already eyeing the mulled wine as a coping strategy, don’t panic—I’ve got you covered.

First things first, I don’t think there is a perfect Christmas, just Christmas. There are nearly always curveballs, and I’ve had my fair share. The biggest, and best, curve ball of all my son who was born on Christmas Day. 

He's a huge, huge, Dr Who fan – one Christmas I served Christmas lunch in the middle of the Christmas Special… oooof.  There was the year I fell really ill, and my husband had to learn to roast a duck on Christmas morning.  There was also my son's 18^th birthday, this was the Christmas I really tried to make it perfect (just one year..please be perfect) and the cake looked like this. Not my finest moment but we still laugh about it and it was a memorable cake. Just not a showstopper - any chances of me making it to Bake Off have evaporated in this confession. 

The truth is the joy of Christmas is to be found in the imperfections, amidst the presents and the prosseco. Those are the moments I look back on and laugh about, the stories we remember. Not many remember that you got the turkey in on time and the roasties were on point, but they’ll remember the year you forgot to defrost it on time, and you had an impromptu picnic. I remember the limp salad I got on the day my son was born because the kitchens in the hospital were closed, but I also remember being serenaded by The Salvation Army whilst I got to know him.

There will be people on their own, those who have experienced loss, divorce or children going to a partner’s house for the first time. Everyone’s is unique and each Christmas will land differently.

Plan for imperfection and enjoy the moments that are perfect 🤩

So how do you manage it?

Here are five simple ways to clear your head, stay calm, and actually this year without losing your mind!

1. Take an Awe Walk (Yes, Even in the Cold)

We’re not talking about a brisk march around the Waitrose car park. This is about grabbing 10 minutes to step outside, breathe in some fresh air, and notice something beautiful—a frosty tree, twinkling lights, or even the neighbour’s ridiculously over-the-top inflatable Santa. Awe walks work wonders for clearing the mind and calming the nervous system. They’re also free, require no prep, and make you feel less like the family’s PA and more like an actual human being.

2. Listen to Guided Imagery Tracks at Night for Better Sleep

I know your evenings are already packed with wrapping gifts and last-minute online shopping (because delivery cut-offs are stressful). But before bed, pop on a relaxation track to help rebalance your frazzled autonomic nervous system. It’s like a mini spa for your brain, and it sets you up for better sleep—essential for staying sane when you’re knee-deep in Christmas prep.

3. Set a Buzzer for Mindful Moments

It’s easy to lose yourself in the whirlwind of Christmas chaos, which is why a mindful pause can do wonders. Set a buzzer on your phone for a couple of times a day. When it goes off, take one minute (yes, just one) to close your eyes, breathe deeply, and reset. Use your 321 relax relax relax. Think of it as your personal "pause button" when things get frantic. It’s so simple, you can even do it hiding in the loo when the house gets too noisy.

4. Draw Boundaries (Yes, You Can Say No)

Remember, you’re not a Christmas superhero. If you’re feeling stretched, say no to the things that aren’t essential. Delegate where you can. Boundaries are your best friend this time of year. Are you a cold tea or a hot tea person? In my book I talk about how when we make ourselves a cup of tea, and someone asks us to help, do you say “of course, I’ll get to it now” and put your tea down. Or do you say “I’m just having a cup of tea and few moments of quiet. If you still need me when I’m finished, I’ll come and give you a hand.” 

5. Drink Water (No, Coffee and Prosecco Don’t Count)

Hydration is the secret weapon of December survival. While coffee gets you through the mornings and Prosecco gets you through the relatives, water is what actually keeps you going. Fill a big glass, keep it nearby, and sip throughout the day. You’ll feel sharper, less cranky, and more capable of facing the Christmas madness. Plus, it’s much harder to cry from stress if you’re properly hydrated.

A Thoughtful Gift Idea for You (or Someone You Love)

Still looking for the perfect gift—or a little treat for yourself? I have space for just 10 personalised relaxation audio-tracks for just £50 each. These 20-minute tracks take you to your favourite place—a calming beach, a comforting woodland, or wherever feels special to you. I write, record, and edit them myself, creating something truly unique to help you switch off and relax. 

But hurry—they’re limited to 10, and once they’re gone, they’re gone!

Drop me a message to order one. 

Buy one of my books as a gift for a mum-to-be or a new mum, or even someone in your family who is going through menopause. One of my son's friends got me to sign a copy for his mum, which I think was really sweet and sent the message that they understood what was happening. 

And remember! This December, don’t let the chaos steal your sparkle. With these five simple tips, you’ll keep calm, stay on track, and actually have time to enjoy the season (without hiding under the duvet).