With Christmas just around the corner, now is the perfect time to take stock of your mental health and prioritise your well-being before the chaos takes over. Although it’s an exciting time, is can be stressful - gathering with family, gift shopping, planning, and the usual year-end rush at work. It can also be exhausting, and if we’re not careful, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Taking proactive steps now can make a world of difference to help you stay balanced and truly enjoy the festive season.

I recently got back from a great holiday where I disconnected and stepped away from the daily grind. It was refreshing and reminded me of the importance of carving out time to relax and reset.

So, since coming back from my trip, I’ve decided to incorporate just 15 minutes a day to step back and reset. I do things like going for a short walk, reading or just being still. These little moments of “time out” help me feel more centred and resilient. I can sure recommend it.

When was the last time you unplugged from everything, even just for a little while? Sometimes, all it takes is a short break from screens and everything coming at you to recharge our mental energy.

Are you looking for something different? How about trying colouring-in? This December, our annual colouring competition will be back, with a new adult category for ages 13 and up. Not being a colouring-in person myself, I have to go on what people tell me. And those that do it, love it. Not only is it fun and creative, and a chance to unwind, but you might even win a prize! Details will be shared soon, but in the meantime, keep this activity in mind as a way to take a break and relax.

Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to wait for the holidays. You can bring that holiday feeling into your everyday routine and help avoid burnout before Christmas even arrives.

So, as the season ramps up, let’s all remember to prioritise our mental health. Why? Because a rested, happy you, is the best gift you can give yourself and those you love.