Seven Self-Care Strategies for a Calmer Festive Season
Note to Reader: This article offers practical strategies for navigating the festive season in a way that prioritises self-care, particularly for those who face sensory overload and social challenges. The holidays can be a time of joy, but they can also bring stress due to busy schedules, sensory stimulation, and societal expectations. It provides six essential tips to help you manage these pressures, such as adapting traditions, setting boundaries, scheduling rest, preparing for sensory demands, seeking support, and letting go of perfectionism. By following these strategies, you can reduce stress and create a festive experience that feels right for you, allowing you to focus on your well-being while enjoying the season.
Key Words: Neurodivergent self-care, Festive season strategies, Managing sensory demands, Holiday stress management, Self-care during Christmas
The festive season is often hailed as the most wonderful time of the year, but for many, it can also feel like the most overwhelming. The sparkling lights, bustling sounds, endless social commitments, and ever-growing to-do lists can quickly create a perfect storm of stress. For those of us who thrive on predictability, calm environments, and manageable interactions, these festive challenges can feel particularly daunting.
But here’s the good news: Christmas doesn’t have to mean exhaustion or burnout. With a little preparation and a lot of self-compassion, it’s possible to protect your energy and create a festive experience that works for you. At ND Perspective, we understand the importance of self-care, especially during this time of year. Here, we share seven supportive strategies to help you prioritise your well-being and enjoy the holidays on your own terms.
1. Shape Traditions to Fit Your Life
Traditions are meant to bring joy, not stress, so there’s no rule that says they must stay the same year after year. If certain customs feel overwhelming, whether it’s hosting large gatherings or navigating crowded shops, it’s perfectly okay to adapt them.
For example, you might swap high-street shopping for the comfort of online browsing. Planning a smaller, quieter Christmas dinner with a few close friends or family members could also take the pressure off. Suggesting a Secret Santa with a clear budget can ease financial and gift-buying stress.
Focus on the traditions that bring you happiness and let go of the rest. Christmas is yours to define.
2. Master the Art of Saying No
The endless invitations to parties, dinners, and events can quickly become overwhelming. The truth is - you don’t have to attend every gathering.
Saying no isn’t about letting others down, it’s about saying yes to your own well-being. Declining politely but firmly is an empowering way to protect your time and energy.
You might try phrases like, “Thank you for inviting me, but I won’t be able to join this time,” or “I’d love to catch up another day when it’s quieter.”
Honouring your limits allows you to enjoy the events you do attend without feeling drained.
3. Build in Time for Rest
With so much going on, it’s easy to overfill your calendar and neglect downtime. Scheduling rest is one of the most effective ways to stay grounded during the festive rush.
This could include taking a peaceful walk to clear your head and recharge, setting aside time each day to enjoy something calming such as reading or journaling, or blocking out "no obligation" days on your calendar to recover between busier moments.
Think of rest as a gift you give yourself, one that allows you to fully engage with the parts of Christmas you love.
4. Prepare for Sensory Demands
Christmas often brings bright lights, loud music, and bustling crowds, all of which can feel overwhelming. Planning ahead can help you navigate these sensory challenges with greater ease.
Carrying earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can help manage loud environments, while wearing sunglasses or tinted glasses may reduce the impact of flashing lights. Tackling essential tasks, such as shopping, during quieter times like early mornings or weekdays can make a big difference.
Creating a calming environment at home can also help. Using softer lighting, soothing scents, or setting up a quiet space to retreat to when things feel too much can provide relief.
By planning and creating a calming space, you can transform the chaos of the festive season into a more peaceful and manageable experience.
5. Lean on Your Support Network
Navigating the festive season doesn’t mean doing everything on your own. Your support network, be it friends, family, or online communities can make a huge difference.
Let those around you know how they can help, whether that’s by pitching in with practical tasks, offering a listening ear, or respecting your boundaries.
Asking for support isn’t a weakness, it’s a way to ensure you can enjoy the season more fully.
6. Let Go of Perfection
Christmas doesn’t have to be picture-perfect. The pressure to create flawless meals, decorations, and gifts can quickly lead to burnout.
Instead, focus on what matters most. Ask yourself what parts of Christmas bring you genuine joy and what tasks or traditions could be simplified or skipped altogether.
By letting go of perfection, you create space to enjoy the season in a way that feels authentic and manageable.
7. Finding Your Festive Flow
The festive season doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. By shaping traditions to suit your needs, setting boundaries, and embracing self-care, you can create a Christmas that’s calmer, happier, and more enjoyable.
Remember, the greatest gift you can give yourself this season is kindness and understanding. Celebrate in a way that feels right for you and let go of the rest.
At ND Perspective, we’re here to support you through the festive season and beyond. Join our online community for free before December 31st and connect with others who understand the importance of navigating life in a way that works for you.
Supporting and Celebrating our Neurodivergent Community,
Jess x x
This article was adapted from a recent Wellbeing Webinar “An ND Affirmative Christmas”