Total Pageviews

Wednesday 16 December 2020

Christmas 2020 : Are You Looking Forward To A Slow And More Simple Different Christmas?

No matter where in the world you live, because of Covid 19 Christmas 2020 will be different to previous Christmas Holiday Times.

I happened across this article by Lisa Walden, which I share with you, she writes:

"Is anyone else embracing a slow Christmas? While this festive season will be unlike any other, one thing I'm looking forward to is the chance to slow down, snuggle up and switch off without being weighed down by guilt.

Christmas is a magical time but it's busyness, in a normal year, can trigger anxiety for many. In fact, research last year found that over two in five Brits felt stressed during the festive season, while one in four sadly struggled with anxiety or depression.

With just three households" (in England) "allowed to mix and many December events cancelled this year, the usual holiday buzz will be slower than ever. It might feel different, but it's quiet rhythm could pave way for a less stressful season — and may be just what we all need.

Take a look at some of the reasons I'm embracing a slow Christmas this year...

1. There is less pressure
One of the things I'm looking forward to this year is less pressure to attend social events, because, well, there aren't any. From long family get-togethers to office parties, I'm secretly thrilled to have an empty diary. They're great, of course, but a jam-packed week can suck all the joy out of the festive season.

Without added pressure of attending events and parties, I'm planning to make time for things I really want to do. From muddy countryside walks to lazy afternoons watching festive films, soaking up the small things is what makes the season special.

Previous research conducted by Mind suggests I won't be the only one feeling this way. They discovering that over a quarter of us feel under pressure to have the 'perfect' Christmas and that, for 48% of those, it has turned into a seasonal mental health problem. It should be one of the happiest times of the year, but for many, this simply isn't the case.

From financial worries to increased family conflict, the pressure to achieve a 'perfect' Christmas can leave many physically, mentally or emotionally drained.

2. Time to remember what's important
In a normal year, we can get so caught up in the non-stop chaos of Christmas that it's easy to forget what really matters: family, loved ones, health, hope, peace, stillness and joy. Instead of the retail festival it has sadly become, Christmas should be a time of reflection and a chance to gather with those we love (albeit virtually this year).

In the midst of life's obstacles and obligations, do something that will make you smile. For some, it may be the chance to perform random acts of kindness, while for others it may be watching an uplifting virtual carol concert.


3. Having time to myself
Instead of rushing from one family gathering to the next, I'm looking forward to soaking up the small things and having time for myself.

Why not make a list of all the things you'd like to do this Christmas? It could be trying a new hobby (such as knitting, writing, drawing or baking), finishing a book, organising your wardrobe or heading out for long countryside rambles. Slowing down and soaking up may just help in these times of great uncertainty.

4. Less pressure to spend
I love to buy for others, but often fall victim to purchasing gifts just for the sake of it. Unlike other years, I've made more of an effort to shop locally, support small business and buy what I only really need to this Christmas.

Some of things I'm doing differently include making homemade mince pies to gift to friends, purchasing 100% recyclable cards and buying distant loved ones practical gifts, such as experiences they can enjoy next year.

Previous research conducted by the Money Advice Trust discovered that one in four of us feel pressured to overspend at Christmas, while many households risk falling into financial difficulty in January due to buying what they can't afford.

With a demand for debt advice rising significantly every New Year, let's put less pressure on ourselves when it comes to spending.

Top tip: If you want to cut back on costs this year, try making a homemade wreath for a friend. See this guide on how to make your own one.


this Christmas Wreath Salad is good enough to eat
more details here

5. Time to reflect
Separated from loved ones, I've found this year immensely challenging. One thing I'm going to make the most of this Christmas is reflection — on both the year that was and what is yet to come.

As well as looking back on all the ups and downs this year has presented, I always love to use the Christmas break to make a goals list for the upcoming year. They're not really resolutions as such, but more achievable goals I like to set myself as a healthy challenge" (such as cooking, knitting, arts and craft).

"As we all look to 2021 with anticipation and heaps of hope, why not make your Christmas as refreshing and revitalising as can be. After all, it's not often we get to enjoy the peaceful hum of a slow and simple Christmas."

Words above/relevant links can be seen here


Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog. It is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

All the best Jan

37 comments:

Lowcarb team member said...

On the previous post ...

Hootin' Anni said...
For some reason the comment link in your newest post isn't opening...it was an excellent, informative post! Dealing with stress in a "normal" holiday season is trying for some.

Hello Anni
Many thanks for your comment, which I have copied and pasted on this newer post.

I think it was a blogger glitch ...

All the best Jan

Judy at GoldCountryCottage said...

Jan, that is really a great article. I love the idea of the fresh wreath and it looks so pretty. I know it looks like I have a lot of stuff and surely it has taken some time, but I am working at a slower pace and seem to be enjoying it more in between times. This time of year is magical to me and even the Covid doesn't change that but I am one of the lucky ones. I think the new year is looking much brighter and more hopeful and, for now, that is my mantra..Stay well and may you and Eddie enjoy a wonderful holiday..xxoJudy

happyone said...

Our Christmas is always pretty laid back and relaxing so it won't be too much different than other years. I will miss going to church though and the get togethers with our church family.

Martha said...

This will definitely be a slower, more simple Christmas and I'm ok with that. I have a few friends that always bring me baked good for Christmas and I usually do the same for them. I'm not baking this year and was trying to think of something simple I could give. I think that Christmas salad wreath is it - thanks!

Tom said...

...this Christmas it will be just the two of us.

Christine said...

I really appreciate less pressure, great post!

aussie aNNie said...

Incredibly beautiful post. x

My name is Erika. said...

That is really true. This was a great post to read because it put all those thoughts together and added a few new ones too. Hopefully it makes people feel a little more content and not so sad about missing out with family and friends.

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

Although this is an informative article in many respects, for those of us who live alone and are cut off from friends, it is also a time of loneliness for some.

Victor S E Moubarak said...

Less pressure perhaps, but I guess people will spend more online.

God bless.

Margaret D said...

Very nice article written by the lady.
In our State or on the Island things are near normal for all of us - we are very lucky.

eileeninmd said...

Hello,

I am happy to stay at home, just the two of us. My family is spread out in many areas and it is not possible to see everyone together. My hubby is considered in the at risk group and he prefers staying safe at home. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Take care, enjoy your day!

R's Rue said...

Thank you

Jeanie said...

This is similar to a post I have in my draft file for later this week on reimagining Christmas. I really will miss only one thing -- being with the kids. and to be honest, as much as I love it, I find that stressful, too. I only slightly miss Christmas shopping (and only at about two or three stores). I don't miss parties much (although I do miss quiet one-on-one get togethers for lunch or tea) but apart from that, not all that much has changed. I know it's different for people "of an age" than those with families.

Debbie said...

some great things to remember!! i love the wreath, i think you featured that before!!

JFM said...

Beautiful post and yes... hubby and I are it this Christmas. The family,around thirty people plus hubby and I usually get together in our home to celebrate Christmas. Because of Covid-19 and hubby and I being in our seventies we will celebrate by ourselves this Christmas 🎄🎅🎁☕

Teresa said...

Muy interesante lo que dices. Besos.

DMS said...

I am enjoying the slower pace. Less festivities works for me as social events can add a lot of stress and I don't normally get much "me" time in December. I am also not eating as poorly because I am not eating party food. :) Spending less is another plus. I do enjoy seeing family and friends during the holidays- but a year off from it all is something I am embracing.
~Jess

Conniecrafter said...

this year won't be different from past years for us, we live so far from our families that we don't like to travel in the winter anymore so we spend the holiday by ourselves anyway.

Divers and Sundry said...

No, I'm not looking forward to having Christmas this way, but I'm at peace with it.

mamasmercantile said...

A great read and such a good reminder to reflect upon the real reason for Christmas. In many ways it is nice to slow down and think a little differently this year. Love that wreath salad.

DVArtist said...

Christmas will be the same for me. We don't celebrate. I may bake something for Mr. M. and we will speak to the kids and grand kids on the phone. I hope everyone who celebrate has a safe and wonderful day.

Emma Springfield said...

Very well said. Merry Christmas

Lorrie said...

Yes, our Christmas will be different and slower-paced. We are not permitted to gather with anyone outside of our household, so it will be just the two of us. We are planning things that we enjoy and how to connect with our children and grandchildren. In some ways, I'm looking forward to it. But it will be different.

Shari Burke said...

We have a slow Christmas every year :-)

NanaDiana said...

I have made that Christmas wreath 'salad' and have also used a foam base and made a Christmas tree one. Our Christmas will be quiet and low key. Just the two of us for the first time ever in our lives together. xo Diana

CJ Kennedy said...

Since we always spent holidays with my parents, when they passed, most everyone else had already established their holiday routines. Our holidays are usually quiet. No stress. My crew doesn't care whether the house is clean or we eat dinner off paper plates.

John's Island said...

Hi Jan, After reading this post I just sat here for a while reflecting on it. I’m convinced that one of the reasons I enjoy following your blog is that your posts are so often uplifting be it delicious healthy meals or ideas to help us deal with life’s daily stresses. Thank you for the article from Lisa Walden. Perhaps my favorite part of her suggestions relates to #5 Time to Reflect. As she said, “One thing I'm going to make the most of this Christmas is reflection.” I’m already feeling a positive effect as I apply that to writing this comment. :-) Thanks for another fine post. Take care, Jan, and stay safe.

Angie said...

Jan - this is a wonderful article! I am a person that enjoys time to myself, so normally I wouldn't mind that we are missing the traditional Christmas events. But we have been socially isolated for so long, that I would really enjoy a Christmas party, or going out for live music. I do have a list of all the things I would like to enjoy for Christmas, because I often find that it comes and goes and I have not enjoyed simple things like making a snowman!!! Right now we are blessed to have both of our kids, as well as our daughter's boyfriend with us, and it is a pleasant mixture of "busyness" and relaxation. Happy Christmas to you!

Iris Flavia said...

To be honest... since my Mum passed I stay home for Christmas, as in our home.
Well, once I went to my Brother and his fiancee and it was a disaster.
But... the time Mum was about to leave us we had chocolate beer and I have a Christmas-beer now, too.

Inger said...

I love that last very wonderful Christmas picture. I will be spending Christmas alone but will exchange gifts with friends here in the canyon. Outside exchanges. I don't mind, I have my dogs, they get excited to open their treat gifts. I just love the holiday and don't mind being alone with my dogs.

RO said...

I agree, and these tips are great and perfect for what's going on around the world right now. Thanks for this amazing post! Hugs and Merry Christmas! RO

Martha said...

Just me and my hubby this year. I'll miss having my kids over but I will enjoy the quiet period.

Rose said...

This is a great article.

Snowbird said...

What an interesting and enlightening read.xxx

Kezzie said...

I think it will be nice to be chilled this year but I'm sad that I won't get to play my favourite board games - my husband isn't keen on them and some of them need more than 2 people to play!

Magic Love Crow said...

I love this salad wreath and I love this list! Thank you! Big Hugs!