It’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but as the coronavirus crisis continues, concerns about our health, future, and finances are at an all-time high – as are our anxiety levels.  

We love Christmas, but let’s be honest, it can be stressful, and this year could be our most anxious yet! How will we celebrate? Where will we celebrate? Who will we celebrate with?

While we don’t have the answers to these questions, we do have simple and effective solutions to help manage your anxieties so you that you can have a very merry Covid Christmas:

• Accept things are going to be a little different this year. Avoid dwelling on what you cannot control and focus on the things you can. If you’re feeling anxious, taking stock of what you’re grateful for might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But research shows that keeping a gratitude journal can help improve your mental health.
• Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, connecting with friends and other activities. Consider whether you can shop online for any of your items. Plan your menus and then make your shopping list. That’ll help prevent last-minute scrambling to buy forgotten ingredients. And make sure to line up help for meal prep and clean-up.
• Lighten your load. Unburden yourself from unnecessary pressures and be realistic with what we can and cannot do. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change too. If you cannot be with your family, find new ways to celebrate together (remember the virtual family quiz night?). Even though your Christmas plans may look different this year, you can still find ways to celebrate.
• Try a traditional herbal remedy, such as Kalms Lavender. Lavender oil has a long-standing association with relieving symptoms of mild anxiety. Over 15 clinical trials have shown that a daily capsule of uniquely prepared lavender oil, found only in Kalms Lavender, can relieve the symptoms of anxiety in just one to two weeks. Benefits are comparable to commonly used anti-anxiety medications without problems such as sedation, addiction, or interaction with other medications.
• Don’t abandon healthy habits and let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your anxiety and guilt. Make efforts to eat well, exercise and get enough sleep. Remind yourself that it might take time for the situation to resolve and be patient with yourself in the meantime.
• Meditation can help take the festive weight off your shoulders. Focus your attention and eliminate the thoughts, issues, problems that may be crowding your mind and causing anxiety. Meditation can create a deep state of relaxation and a tranquil mind. It can also help with both physical and mental well-being.
• Take time to talk. It’s normal to feel a bit worried, scared or helpless during uncertain times. Remember: it is OK to share your concerns with others you trust – and doing so may help them too. If you cannot speak to someone you know or if doing so has not helped, there are plenty of helplines you can try instead. Anxiety UK offers support, advice, and information on a range of anxiety, stress and anxiety-based depression conditions. For assistance today, call their helpline on 03444 775 774.

The anxiety-relieving effects of uniquely prepared, pharmaceutical quality lavender oil are available, only in Kalms Lavender One-A-Day Capsules.