Modern Goddess Magazine

It is Christmas and at this time of year we catch up with friends and family that we may not have seen in the last 12 months. You want to look good rather than hear muttered voices saying “She doesn’t look too good, does she? Do you suppose she is OK?” Wouldn’t you rather leave them with their jaws on their ground as you enter full of glowing health and energy?

One of the main things that can affect the way we look and feel is stress and if there is one time in the year that could truly be called stressful it is the few weeks leading up to the big day.

Here are my top five tips for looking after yourself during this time so you can swan through Christmas with your head held high.

1. Sleep - Honestly, nothing can alter your appearance like good nights sleep. Apart from being able to bounce out of bed feeling refreshed, a quick look in the mirror will show you brighter eyes and colour in your cheeks. The days can get right out of control at this end of the year so the best thing to do is to set a time for bed and stick to it. Routine can be a health saver!

2. Water - You will be running around shopping and cooking and wrapping and… it is easy to forget your fluids. This is party season, too, so you need to replace the fluids that are chased out of you by all that champagne! Dehydration saps your energy as well as the moisture from you skin. Keep a bottle of water with you wherever you go. A few sips here and there and you will have had your eight glasses for the day without realising it. Bottles come in so many sizes these days that there is one to fit every bag, glove box or briefcase.

3. Walking - Get outside. Go for a walk. Not only will it help you to be fit, walking is known to reduce stress levels too. It doesn’t have to be a big walk, just something that takes you outside into the park or along your favourite path. You will come back feeling energised.

4. Laugh - Watch a funny film or go and chat with your girlfriends. Laughing reduces stress but it also exercises all those little muscles in your face and chest that can feel so tight when you are stressed. How good do you feel after you have had a good laugh? It seems to lift a weight off your shoulders, doesn’t it? Make time to laugh.

5. Pamper - Treat yourself to some special pampering to make you feel really special. That could be something as simple as a fragrant bath by candlelight or a full on session at a day spa. Treat your skin to a facial, have a manicure and pedicure or get your hair done. It is amazing what a difference that can make to the way you feel about yourself.

All of these things are simple to do but you will need to make time for them. They are the best things for you but they are also the first things to be missed in the rush.

I wish you a happy and healthy Christmas. May you glow with happiness and contentment.