A Merrier Christmas: Enjoy the Festive Season with 12 Days of Kindness

As the festive season approaches, we find ourselves becoming so busy and stressed that we forget to take care of ourselves, which in turn can also affect those around us. This holiday season, I invite you to join me on a very simple yet transformative journey – a journey that begins with kindness. In the days leading up to Christmas, let us explore the profound impact that being kind to both ourselves and others can have on our mental health and overall well-being.

Defining Kindness to the Self

Kindness to yourself is a powerful practice often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is the act of treating yourself with compassion, understanding, and love. In essence, self-kindness involves acknowledging your worth, embracing your imperfections, and nurturing a positive relationship with yourself. It’s about being mindful of your thoughts and actions and choosing to cultivate a nurturing and supportive inner dialogue.
This holiday season, take a few moments each day to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s taking a warm bath, going for a walk in nature, acknowledging when you say something bad to yourself and reframe it to something you would say to a friend or family member, or simply indulging in a good book. Prioritise some self-care and treat yourself with the same kindness you extend to others.

Defining Kindness to Others

Kindness to others, on the other hand, is the practice of extending empathy, generosity, and compassion to those around us. Acts of kindness can be grand or simple, ranging from a heartfelt compliment to volunteering in your community. It’s about recognizing the humanity in others, acknowledging their struggles, and offering a helping hand or a listening ear.

During the days leading to Christmas, make a conscious effort to perform one act of kindness each day. It could be as straightforward as holding the door for a stranger, leaving an uplifting note for a colleague, or volunteering at a local charity. The beauty of kindness lies in its ability to create a ripple effect; a small gesture can inspire others to spread kindness as well.

The Impact on Mental Health

Engaging in acts of kindness, both towards yourself and others, has a profound impact on mental health. When you treat yourself with kindness, you build resilience and self-esteem, fostering a positive and nurturing mindset. Self-compassion has been linked to reduced anxiety and depression, promoting a more balanced and contented life.
Similarly, extending kindness to others triggers the release of oxytocin, the “love hormone,” in our brains. This not only enhances our mood but also contributes to a sense of connection and community. Acts of kindness have been shown to reduce stress, increase happiness, and create a positive feedback loop of well-being.

Examples of Kindness to Ourselves as well as to Others

Here are some acts of kindness you could take into consideration:

Volunteer Work: Spend time helping those in need through local charities or community organisations
Random Acts of Kindness: Surprise a strange with a small gesture, like paying for their coffee or leaving an uplifting notes.
Donate to a Cause: Support a cause you believe in by contributing financially or donating goods to those less fortunate.
Listen Actively: Take the time to genuinely listen to someone who needs a sympathetic ear without judgement.
Helping Hand: Offer assistance to a neighbour, friend or family member with tasks like grocery shopping or yard work, especially if they are going through something tough during this time.
Cook a Meal: Prepare a homemade meal for a friend, family member, or someone who is going through a challenging time.
Send a Thoughtful Text: Send a kind and uplifting message to a friend or family member to brighten their day.
Pay for Someone’s Coffee: Surprise the person in line behind you by paying for their coffee or meal at a café or drive-thru.
Write Positive Reviews: Take the time to write positive reviews for businesses or services that you appreciate, helping them gain recognition.
Create a Care Package: Put together a care package with thoughtful items for someone going through a tough time or facing a challenge, or even just to brighten someone’s day.
Compliment Someone: Offer a genuine compliment to brighten someone’s mood. Compliment their appearance, work, or a positive trait you have noticed.
Give a gift to someone working during the holiday season: It can be very tough for those working during the holiday season, especially in retail. Gift them a box of chocolates or a thank you note to let them know that their work is appreciated.

It is hard to think of ways to be kinder to ourselves so here is a few suggestions:

Practice Self-Compassion: Be understanding and gentle with yourself, especially in challenging situations. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer to a friend.
Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable and realistic goals for yourself. Break larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Establish Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and set healthy boundaries. It’s okay to prioritise your well-being and not overcommit yourself.
Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Reflect on your successes and give yourself credit for your efforts.
Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Challenge self-critical thinking and focus on your strengths and achievements.
Forgive Yourself: Understand that everyone makes mistakes. Forgive yourself for past errors and view them as opportunities for growth and learning.
Nurture positive relationships: Surround yourself with supportive and positive people. Cultivate relationships that uplift and inspire you.
Take Breaks: Give yourself breaks when needed. Taking short breaks throughout the day can improve focus, productivity, and overall well-being.
Disconnect from Technology: Take breaks from screens and social media. Give yourself time to unplug and focus on in-person connections or solo activities.
Seek Help When Needed: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re struggling with your mental or emotional health. Asking for support is a courageous and kind act toward
Engage in Hobbies: Make time for activities you enjoy. Whether it’s a hobby, creative pursuit, or simply spending time in nature, doing things you love contributes to your happiness.
Get Adequate Sleep: Prioritise a good night’s sleep. Create a comfortable sleep environment and aim for the recommended amount of sleep for your age group.

Remember, being kind to yourself as well as others, involves making intentional choices that prioritise your well-being. It’s about recognising your needs and taking actions that contribute to your physical, mental, and emotional health.

Sending you the intention of kindness for the holiday season.