We probably don't need to convince you on the notion of slowing down. Who doesn't dream of a day off with nothing to do but read, watch a film, cook a meal, have a bath and indulge in some time alone? It might not be the reality most days, especially during the holiday season (is anyone else frantically crafting gifts, scheduling in Christmas party after Christmas party or generally wondering where the time goes?); but we do encourage a few moments to wind down and take care of yourself. We recommend that strange hinterland between Christmas and New Year – that glorious wedge of time before the chaos of another year starts again.
This is a time where leftovers reign, films can be played back to back, and a walk outside will hopefully not be interrupted by family calls or work emails. It truly is the epitome of luxuriating in the simplest of pleasure. The very last of the Christmas Day cheeseboard, smuggled onto a knife loaded with tart chutney whilst everyone else is watching TV; the freedom to fall asleep on the sofa at 4pm; waking up for a cup of coffee and a brisk walk outside when the streets are quiet before everyone's up and knowing you could just slip back into bed afterwards.
Finding that space can be a challenge, so allow us to offer some friendly advice. Create some boundaries (physical or otherwise): this could look like telling your family, loved ones and friends that you will simply not be available for precisely [insert number of hours here], and closing the door to the bathroom/bedroom/living room. You might slip into a hot bath, watch your favourite guilty-pleasure film or simply lie down and think of nothing at all. Saying no to plans might be the most empowering thing you do all year (and lends itself to being a handy New Year's resolution if not): exercise that muscle. It's a great feeling. And finally, figure out what it is that truly feels like you're being looked after; then make it a ritual. A monthly massage? A solo cinema date? A favourite meal? These are the little luxuries that go a long way.
This is a time where leftovers reign, films can be played back to back, and a walk outside will hopefully not be interrupted by family calls or work emails. It truly is the epitome of luxuriating in the simplest of pleasure. The very last of the Christmas Day cheeseboard, smuggled onto a knife loaded with tart chutney whilst everyone else is watching TV; the freedom to fall asleep on the sofa at 4pm; waking up for a cup of coffee and a brisk walk outside when the streets are quiet before everyone's up and knowing you could just slip back into bed afterwards.
Finding that space can be a challenge, so allow us to offer some friendly advice. Create some boundaries (physical or otherwise): this could look like telling your family, loved ones and friends that you will simply not be available for precisely [insert number of hours here], and closing the door to the bathroom/bedroom/living room. You might slip into a hot bath, watch your favourite guilty-pleasure film or simply lie down and think of nothing at all. Saying no to plans might be the most empowering thing you do all year (and lends itself to being a handy New Year's resolution if not): exercise that muscle. It's a great feeling. And finally, figure out what it is that truly feels like you're being looked after; then make it a ritual. A monthly massage? A solo cinema date? A favourite meal? These are the little luxuries that go a long way.
